A picture showing Rs 6,76,340 known as monthly payment to a bank account is enough to stop almost any average person. This is what happened when a developer shared his salary on Reddit.The post attracted thousands of people, but what made it interesting wasn’t the volume. Instead, it was a career journey afterward—and a conversation that sparked about engineering careers, technology skills, the wage gap, and whether success in tech is more dependent on college parents or lifelong learning.According to a Reddit post, the engineer started his career with an annual package of Rs 15 lakh and, over eight years, earned an annual compensation of around Rs 1.3 crore, with a monthly salary of over Rs 6.7 lakh.His story also served as a reminder that even when impressive salaries are in the headlines, they are often built on years of exceptional work rather than overnight success.
From the establishment of schools to the most advanced systems
The programmer shared that he graduated from a Tier-1 technology college (IIT) and joined the technology sector right after college.He later worked abroad before returning to India in 2024, joining a FAANG company and eventually moving to what he described as a large Tier-1 fintech company.Unlike most software development jobs, his work revolves around highly specialized systems.According to Reddit discussions, its technology includes:• C++• Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA)• Low cost software• Sales engines• High-frequency systems• Linux-based backend engineeringWhen asked what aspiring professionals should focus on, the answer was surprisingly short:“C++, DSA.”
Why niche skills often command high salaries
The viral post highlighted an important truth in today’s tech industry.Not all software engineering jobs are created equal.While web development, software development and general engineering continue to offer lucrative careers, some areas remain small but highly specialized.This includes:• High frequency trading (HFT)• Rich wealth• Distributed systems• Composting• Database engines• Working methods• Integrated systems• Limited infrastructureCompanies operating in these areas compete for speed measured in microseconds. Even small changes in working hours can lead to significant financial benefits, which is one reason information technology engineers often receive higher compensation.
The Internet points to other realities
Although many users praised the engineer, the discussion soon turned to a broader issue: not everyone starts from the same line.Another commentator wrote that starting at Rs 15 lakh a year itself represented a huge advantage.Another shared a completely different journey.He said he started with Rs 96,000 a year and, despite eight years of service, never crossed Rs 20 lakh a year.Some explained that they started their careers with a salary of Rs 7,000-8,000 per month, while others said their initial training paid Rs 2,000 per month.The discussion highlighted a truth that career experts often point out – salary growth depends on a number of factors that a person can’t control.This includes:• In college and higher education• Location• Industry demand• Company type• Time to change jobs• Financial conditions• Finding opportunities• Special skillsMany commentators noted that working abroad before returning to India would also significantly increase the salary negotiations for skilled professionals.
Can students from Tier-3 colleges reach such positions?
Perhaps the most important part of the discussion came from the students.An engineering student from a Tier-3 college asked if someone without an IIT education could still get into high-paying fintech businesses or low-cost entrepreneurs by hiring out of school.Although the original image did not provide a detailed plan, many experts who responded to the thread emphasized that hiring people outside of school is happening, especially for those with special problem-solving skills and program requirements.Several users have suggested focusing on:• Competitive programs• Advanced C++• Data structures and algorithms• Working methods• Computer networks• Linux internals• Creating a plan• Personal projects that demonstrate limited programming skillsEmployers in the specialized tech industry often prioritize technical skills over general resumes, although competition remains high.
The salary picture only tells one part of the story
One interesting thing about the discussion was how people started trying to identify the employer from the salary information.Some think of it as an investment bank, while others think of a regular trading company or a large fintech company.The engine maker refused to disclose the company’s name, saying it could not disclose it for obvious professional reasons.Instead, he chose to focus on the skills of his work rather than his employer’s reputation.That became a hidden lesson.In the technology industry, long-term career growth often depends on where a person works today and the unique skills they continue to develop over time.
What students can learn from this discussion
For engineering students, the infected Reddit site offers a much simpler lesson than just chasing the highest salary.It also highlights the value of developing expertise in complex areas of technology that few engineers pursue. Strong requirements in programming, mathematics and computer science continue to form the basis of many of the highest paying positions in the industry.At the same time, the discussion also reminds students that comparing salaries without understanding different career paths can be misleading. Two engineers of the same age can earn very different salaries depending on their skills, industries, opportunities and career choices.Instead of focusing on the salary pictures that are broadcast on social media, students can benefit more by learning the knowledge, hard work and technical depth that is often behind them.Disclaimer: This article is based on a viral discussion shared on Reddit. The payment figures, job details and complaints mentioned are based on the statements made by the anonymous user and other participants in the discussion. The Times of India have not independently verified these claims. This article is intended for educational and career information purposes and should not be construed as financial, career or salary related advice.