I think it might be "just pure coincidence", though I think the way you describe it takes away from the validity. I think it's NOT USUAL for the first engineer

I think it might be "just pure coincidence", though I think the way you describe it takes away from the validity. I think it's NOT USUAL for the first engineer to get the same stock options as the "these second wave engineers". It's possible, if the first engineer is a horrible negotiator or the founders are not people you want to work with, but not usual by any means. I have seen the second wave engineers get a higher salary (but lower overall compensation package) than the first. That happens quite a bit. Hope that helps.