u/DoctaCrane

I gave my resignation notice a while back, and my manager reacted in a way that felt awkward. They responded saying that they were expecting this to happen and that I changed. They said that I should’ve told them that I was interviewing at other places and that I got a job offer, which was the opposite advice I heard from someone lol. I got offered a counteroffer, but once I asked if the salary could be matched, the manager responded saying that they couldn’t do anything now since I already accepted the offer. And then they mentioned something about just hiring someone that would get paid less than me.  

I’m a mechanical engineer (BS + MS) currently working in the electrical utilities industry. I recently received a strong offer for an engineering role at another utilities company with a decent salary increase, better structure, and more stability than my current job.

My dilemma is that I have been dreaming of working as an aerospace engineer, but I haven’t been able to break into the industry yet. I’ve applied to many aerospace roles but haven't been able to land an offer.

The new offer is appealing as my pay will increase by at least 15%, and I’m honestly ready to leave my current job. But it’s still not aerospace, and that’s the part I’m struggling with.

A few other factors:

• I will get an up to 15% annual bonus whereas I'd get 2-3% annual bonuses at my current job
• With the new job, I will have to commute to the office at least 4 times a week whereas my current job is fully remote. The commute to work will cost me more in time and gas.
• My current job has limited growth and isn’t getting me any closer to aerospace.
• I’m worried that taking another utilities job might move me further from my dream field

For people who’ve changed industries or pursued a dream field later in their career, how do you decide between taking a stable, well‑paying offer now versus holding out longer for something in the field you really want?