Friday, May 5, 2006

Simple computations

1. Software engineer
Responsibilities: design, develop, test, write documentation, be ready in time...
Skills needed: Programming languages(Advanced), OOAD, Databases, Various technologies, Foreign languages
Studies: BSc or MSc. Preferably in CS, EE, Telecommunications, Math...
Risks assumed: High - projects depend un the quality and speed of their work
Satisfaction: Low to medium

Monthly salary ~= 500 EUR
Bonuses ~= 0 EUR
Daily allowance = 0 EUR

2. Operation guy
Responsibilities: go onsite, install or update systems
Skills needed: Reading - to be able to read procedures, Computer skills (Medium) - Installation + Office...,
Studies: BSc on whatever
Risks assumed: Low. High only in underdeveloped belligerent countries...
satisfaction: High. Can see foreign countries for free

Monthly salary ~= 450EUR
Bonuses ~= depending on project
Daily allowance = 120 EUR when on mission


All the data is for two years experienced guys.
A simple math will say that:

In an year a SW Engineer will earn about 6000 EUR
In an year an Operation guy will earn 5400 EUR + 12000 EUR = 16400 EUR
30 Days - mean month value * 200 EUR/day * 6 Months average mission time = 21600 EUR
Costs in mission for food and lodging ~= 10000 EUR

What do you think?

I was puzzled myself when someone has shown me the figures. I understood why some of the good developers I have in my team want to leave for operations. They are ready to do a work that does not involve much risks and offers them some possibilities to visit the world while earning more money than the hardworking guys that remained home. Moreover they have the opportunity to meet the client face to face and learn more about some opportunities.

I will certainly not encourage anyone to become a SW Engineer from now on. They should be fools to do it...

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