Considering a Job Change: Industry to Government?
I’m currently working in the private sector and contemplating a shift to government employment here in Canada. I’ve received a new job offer and would love your input.
I’ve been in my current role for just under a year. Before this, I spent five years at a previous job that I somewhat enjoyed, but I became disillusioned with the company’s direction under executive management and was looking for a long-term, stable position.
Current Job Overview:
– Salary: $140,000 CAD annually
– Vacation: 4 weeks per year
– Benefits: Decent, but no pension or RRSP; offers a small annual bonus
– Position: Senior Accountant reporting to the CFO/owners in a private company
– Company Climate: The company has some quirky dynamics since it’s family-run. The CFO, who is about 65, envisions me taking over in 15-20 years, but I question his retirement timeline due to his workaholic tendencies.
Pros of My Current Job:
– Competitive salary
– Fantastic colleagues
– Reputable company
Cons of My Current Job:
– No remote work options; I have a 40-minute/50 km commute each way, which may necessitate selling my house when my partner and I eventually relocate.
– Long hours; I leave at 7:30 AM and usually return around 6 PM.
– Family-run quirks can be challenging.
– My boss has an old-school management style that has been frustrating at times, though I’m accustomed to it now.
– The work itself feels unchallenging and monotonous; my tasks mainly involve approving others’ work and assisting the CFO with various tasks. I miss the depth of actual Accounting analysis.
– The addition of a junior accountant role that I might have to fill for 18 months is concerning, and I’m hesitant about a sudden shift in responsibilities.
Concerns:
I’m worried that if the company faces difficulties, I could be the first to go due to my high salary without being responsible for one specific area. This role was created for me because of my niche experience, but I fear my position could be vulnerable.
The New Job Offer:
– Employer: Provincial government
– Role: Auditor, unionized, with pension
– Pros:
– Remote work for 3 days a week, 2 days in-office (only a five-minute commute)
– Government pension, stability, and union protection
– Generous maternity leave policies
– Time-off management is straightforward; just set an “out of office” email when needed, with 3 weeks of vacation + an additional week for accrued OT.
- Cons:
- Pay is $48/hr for 37.5 hours a week, with annual raises capped at about $118,000 after five years—a pay cut of around $50,000 before taxes compared to my current salary.
- Transitioning to a new field (audit) makes me fairly nervous.
I’m uncertain about whether to accept the new role. Has anyone transitioned from industry to government? What was your experience like? I’d appreciate any insights as I weigh this decision.
One response
Deciding whether to accept a new job is a big decision, and it sounds like you’re considering a variety of factors in your current role versus the new government position. Here are some points to consider:
Current Role
New Job Offer
Considerations
Long-Term Career Goals: Think about where you want to be in 5 to 10 years. If stability and a supportive work environment are high on your list, the government role may be a better fit.
Financial Comfort: Calculate how the pay cut will impact your lifestyle and financial goals. If you feel it’s manageable, consider the benefits of additional time at home and job security.
Job Satisfaction: Reflect on the importance of job satisfaction versus salary for you. If you’re feeling increasingly unfulfilled in your current role, the potential for a new challenge in government work could reignite your passion.
Work Environment: The government role could offer a more structured work environment which might be a refreshing change from a family-run business with its quirks.
Future Opportunities: Government jobs often come with opportunities for growth and advancement, along with a clear path for raises and added benefits.
Ultimately, it could be helpful to make a pros and cons list, weigh the factors that matter most to you, and maybe even discuss your concerns with trusted colleagues or mentors. Whatever you choose, ensure that it aligns with what you value most in your career and personal life. Good luck!