BB Trading vs Microsoft Software Engineer Compensation Comparison
Hello.
I am wondering if there is any consensus on the compensation difference between a BB Trading Analyst vs a Microsoft Software Engineer. In particular, I am wondering if there is a significant gap in either the starting salary or several years down the line.
Thanks for the input.
Starting salary for Microsoft is about 50% higher, and the cost of living is also significantly lower (if we're comparing Seattle vs. NYC). 1st year BB analyst in S&T will probably still make less than Microsoft after the first year, but as you get to associate level, that may change.
Software engineer -> take over trading
not a complete expert in the S&T side but from what I understand, if you are interested in trading I would take the MS software engineering job, get the experience and move over to some kind of quant fund. from what I hear, software engineers are exactly the type of guys they look for.
It's a tough call. Starting out,the Microsoft software engineer will make more, have a better quality of life, and become a better programmer faster than the Trading analyst. However, after a few years, the BB trading analyst has the potential (but no guarantee) to make much more. Ten years out, if you're not management at microsoft, the BB guy will outearn you at 2-5x.
Provided you network, you could go from Microsoft to a BB Trading/prop trading shop after a few years.
Which area do you like more?
As far as personal interest I lean towards trading and finance. However the work-life balance that a large technology company provides is very enticing. Overall, with the potential for much higher earnings several years out, I am currently leaning towards trading, even if it means starting out lower.
i am not really sure about move from MSFT to some prop shop - hard call and cut in pay probably. i would just not count on that.
if you like trading, go for BB role.
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