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  • Startup vs. Established Blockchain Job Offer: How Should I Choose?

    Bondan S

    Member

    Updated: Jun 3, 2025
    Views: 2.1K

    How do I choose between a blockchain startup job and an established company offer? I have two offers right now. The first is with a Layer 1 blockchain startup. It’s early-stage, has no structure, but the potential is huge if it succeeds.

    I worry it might fail in six months. The second offer is from a big Layer 2 company. It’s stable, offers great benefits, and has a clear structure. I fear I’ll lose my work-life balance and become just another corporate employee.

    I have two years of blockchain experience. Part of me wants the stability and money. Another part wants to help build something new and meaningful. If you’ve faced this choice, did you regret picking the safe option?

    Or did you wish you’d avoided the chaos of a startup? For those who joined an early-stage blockchain, what was the biggest benefit? I’d appreciate any advice or stories from your blockchain career journey. Thanks!


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  • Shubhada Pande

    Community Administrator • 4mos

    I’ve worked with both Layer 1 and Layer 2 protocols, and I’ve faced a similar decision in my career. The key difference lies in the environment and growth trajectory each offers. Startups, especially early-stage Layer 1s, give you the chance to wear multiple hats, work closely with the core team, and have a direct impact on the project’s direction. However, they come with higher risks—uncertain funding, evolving product-market fit, and less job security.

    If I were in your shoes, I’d consider where I want to grow. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy solving undefined problems, and can handle the volatility, the Layer 1 startup could be a game-changer for your skills and career. On the other hand, if you prefer structured learning, clear processes, and stability, the Layer 2 company would offer more security and polished growth paths.

    Also, compare the compensation carefully—tokens from the startup might have high potential but could lack immediate liquidity. Stability vs. high-risk, high-reward—that’s the real trade-off.

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  • Shubhada Pande

    Community Administrator • 4mos

    If you wan to understand, how to evaluate token based compensation, you can read discussion thread https://artofblockchain.club/discussion/how-to-evaluate-a-job-offer-with-token-based-compensation

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