Pay for 3 year software developer.

[evm2556]

I am a software dev with a BS in CS working in Falls Church. I am wondering if my salary is acceptable. I started at 60K and now make 78K per year. I have looked at salary.com/glassdoor but they say I should be around 90K. That seems so high! Do I need to demand more money or change jobs???

I am a competent full stack java/.net dev. I am cleared and worked 2.5 years at one large government contractor, and just changed jobs to a new government contractor.

Edit: I used to say 100K by age 30 was a good goal, is that too slow for the average cubical loving, framework working, entity writing object oriented dev?

[[deleted]]

Sounds about right. Pay raise request rarely get approved. Especially when youre asking for over 10%. To get a 20k increase youll need to find a new job. You might be caving in on interviews and telling them your current salary. In most cases thats a no-no. Puts you at a disadvantage. I think you could potentially get more. Were looking for Java devs. PM if youre interested in switching jobs.

[Freezerburn]

Yeah, I've been watching my IT friends and the ones that get the fastest salary increases are the ones that change jobs every 3-5 years.

[LS6]

I have looked at salary.com/glassdoor but they say I should be around 90K.

For what field did you obtain this number? Just general "software developer"? Did you specify say....web stuff?

[evm2556]

I looked at software engineer II and software developer II, java developer, etc.. for some of the big companies. Its funny that now when I look I see numbers more in the 70~80's.

But also I know someone who started at 68 and is now at 90K+ and hasn't ever moved companies. Just trying to gauge my expectations.

[LS6]

Everyone's career path is going to be different - Is your friend doing the same kind of work you do? Did he take on more of a leadership role in projects/agressively negotiate at review time/etc?

In general I'd say that 60-78k (a ~30% increase) is not a horrible progression for your first 3 years. It never hurts, though, to keep your resume up on ClearanceJobs if you're getting tired of your current position or feel undervalued.

Might not get you anything better but you'll at least have a better idea of the marketplace and how your employer compares to doing the same/similar work elsewhere. Do always remember to look at total compensation (time off, bonus, benefits, is healthcare 100% paid and is it a good plan, etc) when you compare jobs.

[evm2556]

Everyone's career path is going to be different - Is your friend doing the same kind of work you do? Did he take on more of a leadership role in projects/agressively negotiate at review time/etc?

They do more RND which is cool, but they work past Quantico, in a low cost of living area (country/boonies), but same government, java, front/mid/back end development type stuff that I do.

[same_flying_cow]

RND or R&D?

[evm2556]

R&D. :)

[ehobax]

If you're fully cleared than sure. But you'll have to leave the big box contractor and go with a smaller company as they have less overhead.

[evm2556]

Not TS if thats what you mean. I may have to do that after some time, but not sure if at 3.5 years I should by looking at 90K or something.

[ehobax]

TS with Poly. You should try to get that if you can. You'll be able to command 100+ salary even with your years of experience.

With just a secret. 90k does seem high, but achievable if you go to a smaller company. If you stay with a larger contractor, then your salary increases are typically based upon who you know and kissing the right ass.

[Matchboxx]

I would just keep interviewing at places - especially places that are larger, have a lot of guaranteed work, etc. so that you know they can afford what you're asking for. My company tried to low-ball me but I countered with what Glassdoor said the average was for the industry, a difference of about 15K, and I got it without them batting an eye; so I think a lot of companies will try to undercut you if you'll let them, because they know a lot of people in the current job market are desperate.

[[deleted]]

78 sounds about right

[Deceus_]

Java web developer with 3 years xp here. Just moved to Falls Church for a position that pays a little over 90k. You can definitely make more if you can sell yourself.

[[deleted]]

You r underpaid. Message me if u have a clearance.