[jasonlotito]

So, you are selling this wrong. You didn't have 5 jobs over 8 years. You had 3 jobs. Your current role, a startup, and when you were a student, you did "contract work." Lump them together. Contract work can be explained. 5 jobs in 8 years is sus.

Now, with 1.5 years at a startup that didn't go anywhere, fine, but people are going to see this as your first job out of school.

If FAANG isn't your current job, that means it was during our "contract work" period, which is gonna be meh at best. Spending 8 months in a junior role at a FAANG tells me 1) that you interview well or that you have connections in some way (neither of which are impressive) and 2) you aren't working there now.

FAANG alone gets your resume a second look. FAANG likes to play up the "you'll have us on your resume" and sure, it might impress some people, but it's also just like any other job.

My frank opinion? With what you've posted? You are still likely junior dev/dev. Apply to a lot of places. Best chance? Make connections with people. I hate to say it, but knowing people is still the best way to get in. Maybe reach out to those FAANG contacts you should still have.

[throwaway_sp11]

Thank you for the suggestions and the reality check. It all makes sense.

I think my original post was misleading, but I can't edit it anymore. I currently work at FAANG, 3.5 years there, mid-level but expecting a senior promo soon.