[hpux]

I don't necessarily agree with your observation. The issue here is that companies like Facebook hire a ton of entry-level (E3) engineers each year that come from their intern pool. Although many of them get promoted, not everyone can pass the bar. The need for more senior engineers is persistent in the company. Another thing to mention is that typically there is no headcount for E3 engineers at Facebook (besides returning interns) for external hires.

[tudelo]

Not sure the source of downvotes, what you are saying seems true. From my experience they will generally not even interview a new grad who has experience for E3 jobs with an internal referal.

[myhf]

What do you mean "pass the bar"? Promotion is a process of supporting and grooming someone for advancement once they have been selected by the promoter. There is no bar to pass.

[derangedHorse]

What companies do you know work this way? Most of the FAANG companies I know only promote you once they think you’ve met that level of proficiency (not to groom you into the position later)