I'm I being screwed at this company?

Hi everyone,

I'm reaching out for some advice regarding my career in software development. I graduated with a first-class degree in computer science four years ago and landed a role as a Junior Software Engineer in a company that took a chance on me despite my lack of experience in the field. Since then, I've been primarily working with WordPress, PHP, Bootstrap, and various front-end technologies like Ajax, CSS, HTML, and JavaScript. I've been responsible for custom coding project without using frameworks, and I've seen my responsibilities grow over the years.

Recently, the company I work for was acquired by a larger corporation, and although we were promised better pay and opportunities for advancement, I've only received a modest pay rise and additional responsibilities without a promotion. Despite my efforts, I've been struggling to find new opportunities elsewhere. Many positions require experience with Laravel, a framework I haven't had the chance to work with extensively. I've been trying to learn Laravel in my spare time, but it's challenging to balance learning new skills with my current workload.

I've also started exploring other technologies like React and TypeScript, and I'm considering transitioning to roles like QA testing, as I'm feeling increasingly undervalued and underpaid in my current position. Recently, the company has even asked me to learn C++, which feels like a significant departure from my current expertise and presents a time management challenge given my existing workload.

I've tried discussing my concerns with my superiors, but I was essentially told to work harder and wait for potential opportunities in the future. I'm now faced with the dilemma of whether to voice my frustrations in the upcoming work survey or continue silently applying for new roles outside the company.

When I joined I was getting paid £26k and now £30k 4 years later!!! Location Northampton

Old contract i'm a junior but on this new company i'm just a developer FYI so they promoted me without payrise?

I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights from those who have been in similar situations. Thank you in advance for your help.

Thanks for your response. Your insights mean a lot to me.
You asked If I left tomorrow, how would it affect the company? It's got me thinking. Considering the custom project I'm on and the skills needed, finding a replacement might not be so easy. We've seen a few folks leave, and their roles have not been replaced just swollen up by the team.
I'm also keeping an eye on industry trends and packages and what i been offered before i'm extremly getting underpaid. Last year I was offered QA postion for £40k and a php dev role for £45k but here i am on £30k It seems salaries haven't seen much uplift lately. But it's not just about pay—it's about feeling valued for what I bring to the table. I spoke to the colleague and they got like £3000 bonus and are on complete different salary compared to me
I'm pondering a shift, maybe to QA testing, maybe something realted. It's not that I'm unhappy, but exploring new opportunities feels right. Plus, if it leads to better recognition and pay, why not?
I been applying 🙂 regarding the survey its anonymous but they will know who said what. Do I just say how I feel? what is the worst thing that can happen they sack me?
Thanks for being a sounding board. Your advice has given me some clarity.

Thanks for your response. Your insights mean a lot to me.

You asked If I left tomorrow, how would it affect the company? It's got me thinking. Considering the custom project I'm on and the skills needed, finding a replacement might not be so easy. We've seen a few folks leave, and their roles have not been replaced just swollen up by the team.

I'm also keeping an eye on industry trends and packages and what i been offered before i'm extremly getting underpaid. Last year I was offered QA postion for £40k and a php dev role for £45k but here i am on £30k It seems salaries haven't seen much uplift lately. But it's not just about pay—it's about feeling valued for what I bring to the table. I spoke to the colleague and they got like £3000 bonus and are on complete different salary compared to me

I'm pondering a shift, maybe to QA testing, maybe something realted. It's not that I'm unhappy, but exploring new opportunities feels right. Plus, if it leads to better recognition and pay, why not?

I been applying 🙂 regarding the survey its anonymous but they will know who said what. Do I just say how I feel? what is the worst thing that can happen they sack me?

Thanks for being a sounding board. Your advice has given me some clarity.