[jesusmichael]

there's 20 guys fresh off the boat that will take the job for zero equity and probably have more experience...

[RollAHardSix]

That's any job. You have to take risks and ask for what you want to get it in life. If this guy is being offered equity it's a fair bet the company is very interested in him, more-so then a regular hire. To quote Zombieland: 'Time to nut up, or shut up.'