Employers - how would you handle this situation?

[Eurodriver]

I just got extended a gracious job offer making twice what I currently make. They actually sought me out, hearing rave reviews through partners at previous firms I have interned at. They want me specifically because I am "fresh" without any bad habits so I will more easily mold to their environment, with the idea to keep me for a long time. However, I would like to only be there 2 years max as I want to work for a larger company upon completion of my masters.

I know I could be shady and just bail 2 years from now, but I want the money and experience. I also know that if I quit my current job and they start hitting hard times in 6 months they would have no problem letting me go leaving me SOL. I'm worried if I say something, they will rescind the offer.

What's the ethical thing to do? Despite my apparent M4C rep, I actually hold my integrity in high regard

[rackham1]

Is their expectation for "a long time" in writing, i.e., is it part of the offer? Or just part of the pitch?

[Sensei]

2 years is a relatively long time for someone in the dawn of their career - especially if they've not completed their formal education.

[Whiskey_Bravo]

Just take it if you think it is the right move(double the pay seems like a good reason to me). 2 years is long enough, especially now days. There is no point in having long term loyalty to a job(especially only based on an offer an assurance they want you "long term" in most cases as I can guarantee you they will only be loyal to you until they decide it's not in their best interest.

[Smuckatelli]

I just got extended a gracious job offer making twice what I currently make.

Is it contractor job supporting the government?

[andy t]

Do what is best for you at the present. Any company will have no difficulty letting you go at any time for any reason. I would take the job offer and move on after two years, if you are still so inclined.

[austinN4]

2 years is a long time - take the job and the double pay and see where it all shakes out 2 years from now, then make your decision. Who knows, you might want to stay. You can't predict the future so don't try. Take the job and don't look back!

[Caeser25]

After being in the corporate/professional world for 7 years and seeing what employers do, do what's best for you. If the money and experience is best for you, go for it. I've found there's no comradery or sticking up for your employees like nco's do. Management and middle management will throw anyone under the bus when needed even if they need to lie or twist the facts.

[HES]

Yeah generally 2 years is an eternity. Dunno what field you are going into but unless its something highly specialized I dont see this being a problem. Besides a lot could happen in two years. This place could be the cats ass.

[SeriousStudent]

BBD - Bigger, Better Deal. When I look at resumes (which I do a lot) if I see people moving every few years and it's an upward progression, it's not any kind of warning sign. Especially in my field. if you can explain every move "More money, greater responsibility, increased number of teams to lead" then it's not an issue.

As others have said, 2 years can be a very long time, or can go by in the blink of an eye. And who knows, you might like it and want to stay longer.