I'm an ECE grad too, but never as an Engineer. The rule in the real world: Your pay corresponds to how much $ you can bring in to the Co. The more money you bring in, the more you will be paid. As an engineer, your value is lesser as usually you don't contribute to sales.... and if you can control a portion of the entire sales, then you are in a position to negotiate for more... Also, in choosing a company, you need to consider whether you want to be a Big Fish in a Small Pond or a Small Fish in a Big Pond... i choose to be a Big Fish...