Where should a C#/.NET alpha geek be looking for a job?

Question

Just curious, at which companies do really good C# developers work? (I'm talking world-wide, not just in USA.)

Answer 1

I'd like to think of myself as a C# alpha geek, and I'm having a great time at Google. It's a great place to work. You're unlikely to stay working in C# (other than for 20% projects) but your experience will be appreciated anyway. .NET knowledge is often easily transferable to Java.

Obvious other answer: Microsoft.

Answer 2

I'd go for Microsoft, there are a couple of simple reasons:

If you really are good, you might end up helping the development of .NET and as an experienced .NET-programmer that would very much be appriciated. Also, just see how much fun Phil Haacked, Joel, ScottGu and many other of those high-end .NETers have.

It's obvious where you want to work! Microsoft!

Answer 3

Start your own business! Nothing else works for me in the long run!

Answer 4

While lots of people are throwing out the big names (Google, MS, etc) I'd like to point out that there's lots of other places people could work at programming, like banks and insurance companies. You may not be on the 'bleeding edge', and it may not be a company where the culture is focused on you as much (as you're more in a support role than a leading role) but it can still be a good experience, and your programming skills get funneled more directly into actual business.

Answer 5

Fog Creek.

Answer 6

I'd think that these would be the companies that contribute back to the community.

My favorites examples are:

• JetBrains
• ThoughtWorks

and, obviously:

• Microsoft Research (for staying on the bleeding edge)

Answer 7

I may be entirely off the mark here, but I get the impression a lot of Universities use .NET technologies. Not the most exciting thing ever, but it has it's own unique benefits/challenges.