Whether you're fresh out of university, self-taught, or a veteran software engineer, deciding the next step in your career can be both nerve-racking and exciting. In this article we'll discuss the difference between in-house software engineering roles and consultancy positions with a summary of the pros and cons of each. We hope this blog will give you the tools to make an informed decision that aligns with your professional and personal goals before you click "apply" for your next role.

Working In-House

In-house software engineers are employed directly by the company for which they develop and maintain software. They have a deep understanding of their company's objectives, culture, and product or service.

Pros of In-house Software Engineering Work:

1. Stability and Predictability: In-house roles typically offer a stable work environment, regular hours, and the security of a long-term contract.
2. In-depth knowledge: You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of your company's product/service. You're more likely to work through the entire product lifecycle from inception to completion and can develop deep technical expertise in a specific technology or domain.
3. Direct Impact: You are deeply involved in the company's successes and growth, which can be incredibly fulfilling.

Cons of In-house Software Engineering Work:

1. Limited Exposure: Working on the same product or within the same industry might limit your exposure to various technologies and frameworks.
2. Risk of Monotony: Focusing on a single product might lead to monotony over time.
3. Less flexibility: In-house roles may offer less flexibility in terms of work environment and schedule.

Working in a Software Engineering Consultancy

Consultants work for an agency that provides software solutions to other companies. They have the chance to work on diverse projects across multiple industries.

Pros of Software Engineering Consultancy Work:

1. Diverse Exposure: Working with a variety of clients means exposure to a wide range of technologies, industries, and challenges.
2. Continuous Learning: The variety of projects requires continuous learning and upskilling, ensuring your skill set remains current and versatile.
3. Flexibility: Consultants often have the ability to choose from a variety of projects, work locations, and schedules.

Cons of Software Engineering Consultancy Work:

1. Less Predictability: The project-based nature of consultancy can mean less job security and increased stress.
2. Work-life Balance: The demands of different clients might lead to longer hours, impacting work-life balance.
3. Continuous Upskilling: The need to constantly learn new technologies and methodologies can be demanding.

Janea Systems: A Blend of Both Worlds

At Janea Systems, we strive to combine the benefits of both in-house and consultancy environments. As a company founded by engineers for engineers, our team works on diverse projects in various industries while enjoying the stability of a consistent work culture.

Our team members, whether they're refining PyTorch's machine learning library or optimizing search engine accuracy for Bing, enjoy the exposure to different technologies and the opportunity to make a significant impact on diverse projects. All of this, while enjoying a stable work environment with an emphasis on work-life balance. There's also the added bonus of being able to work from anywhere in the world and an annual company getaway.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to work in-house or in a consultancy can significantly shape your career path. The choice ultimately depends on your personal goals, desired work style, and professional objectives. It's important to remember that there is no universally 'right' choice, just the one that is right for you.

If you're interested in a career that combines the best of both worlds, we invite you to explore opportunities at Janea Systems. Discover what makes working at Janea Systems great directly from our engineers. To learn more about how we hire, read our blog or view our open positions.