Amazon

Amazon is doing a lot of innovative work in all areas of computer science. And if you're willing to relocate, you can work on almost anything.

The pay is above industry standard and the benefits are very good. You work with extremely smart people.

To move up, you have to complete projects, and that requires opportunity, which is just not available in the rank-and-file.

It can be done, but don't expect to move up quickly. Do not expect your team to train you on anything. It's definitely "sink or swim," so ask lots of questions about everything.

Mentoring is encouraged, but few know how to do it well. Your manager is key to promotion and getting the "good" work. At Amazon, you "own your career," but your manager can make it very easy or very hard. In short, if you have a bad manager, you're not going to have a good time.