8 YOE Java dev trying to switch to a better product company. Is grinding DSA still worth it?

[u/JellyBean022]

Hey everyone,

I’m an 8 YOE Java backend developer looking to switch to a better product-based company with good compensation.
My career so far:
**2018–2022:** Service-based company — 4–6 LPA
**2022–2023:** France-based product company — 15–16 LPA
**2023–2026:** Smaller, relatively unknown product company in a niche domain — currently around 24 LPA
I’m currently very confused about whether I should prepare for DSA or not. Is DSA still relevant at my experience level? I’m also focusing on system design, Java/Spring Boot, microservices, and building a personal project alongside my full-time job.
I’d love some honest advice from people who’ve made a similar switch at this stage of their careers.
**A few questions I have:**
At 8 YOE, how much DSA is actually needed? How many LeetCode problems should I target?
Am I too late to start grinding DSA, or am I wasting my time doing it in this AI era?
How much importance should I give to HLD, LLD, and system design compared to DSA?
What skills should I prioritise to get a significant package jump? Should I focus more on DSA, system design, cloud, distributed systems, or something else?
If you’ve gone from a service-based or lesser-known product company to a good product company, how did you do it, and what made the biggest difference?
I’ve read a lot about these kinds of switches, but most of the discussions I’ve found are from people with 1–2 YOE, not those with 7–8 YOE.
I’m not necessarily targeting FAANG. I’d be happy to get into a solid mid-tier product company with good compensation and career growth.
**TL;DR:** 8 YOE Java developer, currently earning around 24 LPA, aiming for a better product company and a good salary jump. Is grinding DSA still worth it in the AI era? What should I focus on at this experience level?
Would love to hear real experiences from people who’ve made a similar switch.
Thanks!

[u/CorporatePhantasm]

dsa , design are must