A Hacker News thread reveals widespread burnout driving developers to quit major tech companies. Multiple commenters describe leaving roles at firms like Stripe due to stagnant work, declining engineering culture, and lack of meaningful responsibility. One former employee noted being paid well but unable to articulate daily accomplishments after years in big tech.

Several respondents cite mandatory RTO and deteriorating workplace conditions as primary factors. A Stripe veteran described confusing company direction, broken tooling, and feeling unfulfilled despite eight-hour days. Others mention hostility from leadership and communication barriers with offshore teams. The trend shows experienced engineers departing as companies push AI-first initiatives without proper consultation.

One commenter is willing to accept a 50% salary cut to avoid AI-mandated workflows they find ethically objectionable. Another took a $22k/year education job to escape tech entirely while pursuing hardware projects. Multiple people describe managers setting impossible deadlines then blaming engineers, or stealing credit for technical ideas.

The pattern suggests growing dissatisfaction with corporate tech environments where technical expertise matters less than political maneuvering. Developers are voting with their feet, seeking roles with genuine ownership or leaving the industry altogether. The exodus reflects deeper concerns about workplace authenticity and professional agency.