Got an email and was asked for a 15 minute screener. CEO was clearly in a rush - talking so fast and running through the questions. Seemed like a nice guy - kept apologizing for rushing - was kind. BUT - huge red flags. The hours!! 7-10am, break, 1-6pm!? I was told that I’d have to be “on call” for emergencies until “late” at night! I’m guessing that the 3 hour break in the middle of the day isn’t actually a break and that you’d have to be on call for that, too! He mentioned weekends for calls and kept mentioning that hours were “unconventional” and that emergencies would need to be dealt with at all hours. Mentioned a few weekends that I’d be expected to work, including a Sunday (not a big deal, but in combination with the being “on call” all the time, I heard alarm bells). No mention of extra compensation. I was asked about my pay expectations and was told that, despite my extensive experience, I was outside what they could offer. When I mentioned the essentially 11 hour days and being expected to be on call I was again told that my expectations were too high. They were offering somewhere between $70000-80000/year. Far too little for the job description stated the responsibilities would be along with being expected to be available what sounded like 24/7! I doubt that I am moving forward after holding firm to my salary expectations, but do plan to turn the offer down should they ask for a second round.

The interview process began with submitting my application, followed by an introductory meeting to learn more about the role and organization, and concluded with a conversation with the CEO. The interview was a bit cold and uncomfortable.