Section Eight · The Journey
Compensation, contracts, and protecting yourself
You do not need to be a lawyer. You need to be informed.
W2 vs. 1099
| W2 (Employee) | 1099 (Contractor) | |
|---|---|---|
| Taxes | Employer withholds | You pay quarterly |
| Benefits | Usually included | None provided |
| Stability | More predictable | Income fluctuates |
| Control | Company sets schedule | You control how and when |
| Effective tax burden | ~25–35% | ~30–40% |
Contract terms you must understand
Non-compete
Limits working for a competitor after leaving. Watch the scope, geography, and duration.
NDA
Prevents sharing confidential information. Read what they define as confidential.
Non-solicitation
Prevents recruiting the company's employees or customers after leaving.
Equity agreement
Key terms: vesting schedule (typically four years with a one-year cliff), strike price, dilution, and exit event.
Exclusivity
Limits outside work. If you plan to stay part-time clinical, this matters.
IP assignment
Anything you create while employed belongs to the company. Read the scope.
Negotiation
- Always negotiate. The first offer is rarely the best.
- Know your value. Your clinical expertise is not entry-level.
- Ask for the full picture. Base, equity, bonus, benefits, flexibility.
- Get it in writing.
- Take your time. Pressure to sign immediately is a red flag.
- Consult a professional for equity and non-competes.
See Appendix F — Contract Red & Green Flags for a complete checklist.
Compensation ranges
| Role | Salary range (USD) | Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Validator | $50K – $80K | Hourly or salary |
| Customer Success Manager | $65K – $100K | Salary + bonus |
| Implementation Specialist | $60K – $95K | Salary |
| Sales Representative | $60K – $90K base | OTE $100K – $150K |
| Product Specialist | $80K – $120K | Salary + equity |
| Marketing / Content | $55K – $90K | Salary or contract |
| Consultant / Advisor | $150 – $500/hr | Hourly, retainer, or equity |
Ranges vary by company size, location, and experience.
Reflection
Know your floor before you negotiate.
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Section 8 · Compensation
Four to mark off before any offer.
- I understand the difference between W2 and 1099
- I know the key contract terms
- I have defined my minimum compensation
- I will not sign anything without reading it fully