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red_rech

I’m still desperately looking for an out from this industry.

The layoff and market conditions helped me realized just how useless my career has been.

I knew I never wanted to work professionally in software, but it was the only thing accessible that pays well.

Even now it’s the only thing keeping me afloat, so I don’t see any way out but slow painful [career] death.

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I'd do software (or other engineering work) even if I was paid the same as a cashier. It's just enjoyable work. Horses for courses.

Agreed. I think we're a shrinking group though. Many got into this profession for high pay and easy work, which is understandable, but not that the shine has worn off they're regretting the choice. Those of us who enjoy the work will remain, but we shouldn't be glad to see the change.

I like software, just not in any capacity anyone would pay me to work

Come to Biotech!

We desperately need programmers with any sort of skills.

The pay is not as good, but the companies are more stable (generally) and the benefits are fine. Mostly remote work for programming. You'll have to deal with bio people too. Family friendly.

>> We desperately need programmers with any sort of skills

I doubt you are hiring people without education degree in biology.

I can only speak for a few companies that I know of here, but not really, no. Programmers are really needed. Now, you're going to be working on firmware and with chips (C, BASIC, python, etc), so it's not the stuff that may be in vogue these days at FANGs. Also, yeah, again, the pay is lower.

All biotech jobs I've come across require at least a few years of experience specific to biotech.

I have 30 years of software development experience, but none with anything health related, so I never get a response from any biotech applications.

Where are you looking? Startups? The larger firms aren't really looking for those degrees with bio, at least in the SW side. If they are, I would ignore that requirement and apply anyways. Most of these firms have bad HR departments that will throw a Caesar salad in with the job requirements, lol. Just be warned, the pay is lower.

I've got a bit of restaurant kitchen experience. The Caesar salad doesn't scare me...

Yes, that's been more my experience as well (though I'd guess my profile is a little less compatible than yours anyway).

I'm in the same situation: there is no way out unless I'm ok to cut my income to 20% of current IT job.

I feel you. I don't hate computers, but the insecurity of late is unsettling.

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