[erwnerve]

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...

[jppope]

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.