Time to move on
I came from engineering to patent examining for the hope of stability and reduced stress, which has not materialized. I just finished my second year as a GS -09 and am struggling with production. I just made the 100 % for the last FY. I’m starting to get it but I don’t see the point staying anymore. It’s stressful and depressing and I’ve but in way too much VOT it should be illegal.
My old engineering manager called me about a senior engineering position that’s starts at 5 weeks vacation and ~40k per year more and an expected 40 hours a week on site. No way can I pass that up. I feel blessed to have an out.
I’ve become a regular stalker on this subreddit and wish you all the best through this mess. I’m sure I’ll pop back from time to time. In solidarity.