Should I work at Tesla/SpaceX or Microsoft/Google?

[throwzzzaway]

I'm a new grad who some experience with both low level software and some backend systems. I have to choose between Tesla/SpaceX and Microsoft/Google (one of each) and I'm really torn. I lack the wisdom to understand the long term implications of my choice, and both seem really great.

On one hand, Tesla/SpaceX are growing rapidly and changing the world. Meanwhile, Microsoft/Google have talented engineers and great culture with excellent pay, perks, and benefits as well as a strong learning environment and a manageable workload. Additionally, Microsoft/Google translate well into other job opportunities down the road, as their brands are very strong and their engineers are known to be very capable.

I feel that Tesla/SpaceX aren't as software focused (Google basically wrote the book on modern day distributed computing), so I'm worried that, while I'll have more responsibility and impactful work here, I may not be as strong technically in the future.

However, I feel that I'm underestimating the benefits of the growth that Tesla/SpaceX are experiencing. I'm afraid of missing out on great opportunities that these companies can offer.

What does HN think about this choice? What would you do?

[vvijay03]

I think these are all great choices, and you really cannot go wrong with any one of these choices.

Some things to help you decide:

- Look at the team you will be working with. "Tesla" sounds exciting. "Writing device drivers for USB components for cars" does not. The team matters. Which team is most exciting?

- Look at your immediate manager. Does he/she seem like a person you would enjoy working with?

- Look at the other members of the team. People you can learn from? People you can get along with?

Good luck!

[throwzzzaway]

At Tesla/SpaceX, I would be working on an extremely exciting project.

I haven't been matched with a team at Google yet, but Google offers a lot of flexibility in location and project, so there are plenty of possibilities. I am an undergraduate though, so research heavy projects are unlikely.

[onion2k]

There is no wrong answer. They're both good companies that'll help your career immensely. Pick the one you want to work for most.

[nwrk]

Haha, please don't be naive.

In both cases you will be in excel spreadsheet under column 'resource'.

Open you eyes!