Bengaluru tech firm offers ₹40 LPA for full-stack developer role without degree requirement

A Bengaluru-based tech company has caught widespread attention by offering an annual salary of ₹40 lakh for a full-stack developer role, without requiring a prestigious degree or extensive coding credentials. The position is a five-day, in-office role open to candidates with 0-2 years of experience.

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The company, smallest.ai, is seeking a "brilliant full-stack developer" to work on artificial intelligence solutions. To apply, candidates must submit a 100-word self-introduction along with links to their best work—no resumes or college qualifications are necessary.

The job listing, posted by founder Sudarshan Kamath on social media platform X, detailed the compensation package, which includes a fixed salary of ₹15-25 lakh and ₹10-15 lakh in ESOPs. The immediate-joining role is based in Bengaluru’s Indiranagar, a prime but expensive area for professionals.

The listing sparked mixed reactions online. While some praised the opportunity, others criticized the compensation structure and in-office requirement. Some pointed out the high cost of living in Bengaluru, while others questioned the feasibility of finding a "brilliant" full-stack developer with minimal experience.

Speculation also arose about the company’s long-term viability, with some doubting its financial sustainability. smallest.ai, a California-based firm, is focused on making AI accessible to everyone, but whether this ambitious hiring strategy pays off remains to be seen.