Just throwing this out there... but worry more about the company/team/funding first. Their claims may or may not be true... but you should make sure you're good financially first.
Got it. Honestly at the moment, i'm financially somewhat secure and so i'm open to a riskier venture. If the startup failed in a year but I've gained considerable Data-engineering experience, I would still think of it as a win.
But you're right. The company/team matters and the viability of the startup matters. Though I have no idea how to estimate how their funding will turn out in the future...
If you are financially stable... the go bigger. You can afford to really look for the right gig. Find a solid headhunter, and find your perfect gig... it will take ~3-6 months but it will be worth it.
Other option, start a biz on the side that utilizes the exact skills you would need later.
But you're right. The company/team matters and the viability of the startup matters. Though I have no idea how to estimate how their funding will turn out in the future...