4 Red Flags I Ignored from a high-paying DevOps position
A while ago, I walked away from a high-paying DevOps position. As I reflect on that experience, here's what I learned about toxic workplace patterns.
A while ago, I made what many called a "crazy" decision. I walked away from a high-paying DevOps position with no backup plan. People thought I'd lost my mind.
After 6 months of unemployment, I looked back and reflected on patterns that I have seen in workplace culture. These are some that I ignored but wish I hadn't. It wasn't easy giving up my role for increased mental health, and I must say the economy has been tough both mentally and physically.
But I have started to experiment in different areas and learned new skills not related to DevOps. By integrating multiple disciplines, I can combine them with what I have gained via DevOps practices.
Skills I've been developing:
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
- Personal Training
- CSCS (Construction Skills Certification)
- Electrical training
- Project Management
- Business practices
Whilst working for others, I came across several red flags that I wish I had uncovered earlier. Some of which are listed below. I hope that others can learn from my findings.
🚩Red Flag #1: Management Musical Chairs
Leadership changes mid-project. One day, I had a mentor guiding me through complex AWS integrations; the next day new managers who didn't understand the technical work but still held me accountable for delivery. When leadership constantly changes, institutional knowledge disappears and you're left scrambling to please people who don't understand what you're doing.
🚩Red Flag #2: Blame Over Solutions
When project delivery suffered due to unclear requirements and absent stakeholders, management's response was to question my capabilities rather than fix the communication breakdowns. In healthy workplaces, problems are solved collaboratively. In toxic ones, someone always needs to be the scapegoat.
🚩Red Flag #3: Key Stakeholders MIA When You Need Them
Product owner unavailable during critical phases, replaced with non-technical substitutes who couldn't answer basic business logic questions. How can you deliver value when no one can define what value looks like? This isn't just poor planning - it's setting you up to fail.
🚩Red Flag #4: Mental Health Lip Service
When I raised concerns about stress, HR dismissed it saying I was "coping" with gym and martial arts. Meanwhile, the company promoted wellness initiatives that were pure performance theater. Real workplace wellness means addressing systemic issues, not telling employees to meditate their problems away.
If you're struggling with work and want to book a 30-minute session with me to go over options to navigate a toxic workplace, or even to see other upskilling opportunities, there's always something to learn and look forward to. If it's not in the tech industry, it will be another industry.
Remember: Innovation doesn't stop because we are told to just be in one industry. It comes as a result of understanding multiple domains, not just one. Keep being foolish and continue to learn even when others doubt you - you are capable of more than you think.
The moral of the story: You're worth more than a paycheck. Your mental health and peace of mind are sacred, and you are ultimately a human being with human intelligence and emotions. You're not a robot who can get things right all the time. Don't settle for less. If you spot these flags, don't get dragged into a pit of despair - just walk away. There will always be a better and bigger opportunity.
Have you experienced similar workplace toxicity?
Recognizing these red flags is the first step, but knowing how to act on them is where most people get stuck.
I'm helping tech professionals navigate these transitions and create exit strategies that actually work. If you're feeling trapped and need someone who gets it, you're not alone.
Ready to explore your options? Book a free 30-minute call to discuss your next moves, or join my email newsletter where I share deeper insights about escaping toxic workplaces and building something better.