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That's not as bad as if you were in the bay area, but it's not good. I assume you're in the Denver area and not out in the boonies? FTE software engineers in D

That's not as bad as if you were in the bay area, but it's not good. I assume you're in the Denver area and not out in the boonies? FTE software engineers in Denver should be $80k minimum. 4 weeks vacation/sick time + 10 paid holidays, $80,000 + $9,230 = $89,230 Medical, $89,230 + $3600 = $92,830 Self-employment tax, $92,830 * 1.0765 = $99,931 That by itself calls for almost $50/hour. Add vision/dental, retirement plan, and whatever else regular employees get, plus the fact that you spend more time on your taxes, and do it throughout the year (you're remembering to pay quarterly estimated tax, right?). Now, where's your risk compensation? The company is hiring contractors because they're easily disposable. You could be dropped at any moment. Where's the compensation for the value of the flexibility you're providing the company? Contracting as a 1099 calls for a 2x multiplier over nominal FTE rates. At least. You should be getting $80+/hour just for breathing. And would you really only be worth an $80,000 salary? Just how junior are you?

jetblackio 13y ago
Wow, this is great information. Yes, I'm in the Denver area. As for my position, I was hired as a Senior System Administrator and definitely have the responsibilities of one. I have about 5 years experience in Linux administration, but obviously less experience in the contracting/business/taxes side of things. You're right on the risk compensation, though this company is known for hiring contractors for long periods of time (some contractors here have been here longer than 5 years). So though it is a very real risk, I'm not as worried about it as I would be otherwise.
- nknighthb 13y ago
  Ah, I was assuming you were a developer. As a sysadmin what you're getting is less surprising. Not great for a senior, by any means, but not so much of a ripoff compared to market rates, since sysadmins always get screwed. :)

jetblackio 13y ago

Wow, this is great information. Yes, I'm in the Denver area. As for my position, I was hired as a Senior System Administrator and definitely have the responsibilities of one. I have about 5 years experience in Linux administration, but obviously less experience in the contracting/business/taxes side of things. You're right on the risk compensation, though this company is known for hiring contractors for long periods of time (some contractors here have been here longer than 5 years). So though it is a very real risk, I'm not as worried about it as I would be otherwise.

nknighthb 13y ago
Ah, I was assuming you were a developer. As a sysadmin what you're getting is less surprising. Not great for a senior, by any means, but not so much of a ripoff compared to market rates, since sysadmins always get screwed. :)