This may make the choice easier or harder, but think about this: Do you want to walk into a place with all these processes, or do you want to help create those

This may make the choice easier or harder, but think about this: Do you want to walk into a place with all these processes, or do you want to help create those processes? If you want to have a strong influence on tool choices and workflow, go with the less formalized company. If you just want these to exist and use them, then do the larger shop. A full set of formal processes is comforting, but it's also restraining - things won't change unless they hit some high level of pain. From my personal perspective, I would go with the python shop (assuming they show interest in improving their methods). Because then I could run with that freedom and kick ass building those processes over time. I would learn a lot of technical tools but also develop skills in making tough choices and tradeoffs. It can be a good start to a career to show that much initiative. But that's just how I would choose. I happen to see informality as opportunity to accomplish things I care about. But it can also mean chaos and wasted effort.