What is an Implementation Analyst?

For my second job, is it better to join a technology start-up as a JavaScript developer or Goldman Sachs as an data analyst in operations?

• I worked till now in two projects. First one was development of a finance web application with good user experience It is a Javascript(end to end) + HTML5 application. I learned a lot and enjoyed both the finance and tech side. But from the past six months I am in another project which is more in finance(capital markets) and work was as both Business and Technology Analyst. It was implementation of a product. So I got two very different offers, one job in Goldman Sachs-10% hike, which I know I will be above-average to good at and other in a startup as a developer-50% hike, which I like a bit more but a little less competent and will have to bear pressure of high pay. But Goldman Sachs has this bonus system the data of which in Operations I couldn't find out. So monetarily too both look like a tie. But I think going for an MBA after working in Goldman Sachs could help step up career as it might be a better brand. Again do not know if working in operations will really help. As in startups, I just see myself trying to learn/getting bit better at technology and go ahead with career both of which look to lead to same type of lifestyle. I am out of parameters to compare, so asking for this career advice.

• Answer:

  There is no easy answer to your question. Start-up is a high risk, at the same time high growth & high learning place. If you have any dreams of starting a technology company in future, then a start-up experience will help. Regarding your MBA plan, what is it that you are planning to do, after the MBA? Majority of the MBA grads, settle down in a safe job a brand company, such as Goldman Sachs and would not take the risk of a start-up. What is your personal financial situation? How many employees are there in the start-up? What is the likelyhood of failure or success? Can you judge? Do you have sufficient money to carry-on with your life, if you are out of job for 6 months to 1 year? In this case, you can risk working in a start-up. Do you have any financial commitments or goals in the next 3 years, towards which you want to save etc? In this case, Goldman looks more reasonable.