[dmd149]

I wasn't referring to an entry level engineer. I was referring to non-tech entry level position (marketing, sales, whatever).

At 75-100k you're not losing that much happiness and stress wise if you take a pay cut at a start-up.

If you have an offer of 40k at an established company and are taking a lower salary (30-35k) to work at a start-up, that will hurt significantly in terms of your happiness, stress, and your ability to pay your bills.