I whole heartedly think that burger flippers should not have to sign a non-compete.

But HCE’s who deal with intellectual data (not burgers) all day long? Maybe, maybe not.

The point is it’s a choice to sign these contracts. Not every company makes you sign one. If it’s important to you, ask about it upfront in the interview process so it doesn’t turn into a “life or death” decision after you’ve accepted a verbal offer.