GS-15 Track vs Dream Job at the Pentagon
Guys, had a question on my logic to see if you guys think I’m crazy.
TLDR: Thinking about switching jobs from a GS-14 supervisor to a GS-14 non-supervisor position at the Pentagon.
Situation: After the first DRP, I was asked to step up as division chief, filling in for the GS-15. Since then, I’ve been killing it, but honestly at the expense of my sanity. The GS-15 position will be announced soon, and I would of course be a strong candidate.
I’ve now been offered a job at the Pentagon that I think could honestly be my dream job. The downsides are: it’s the Pentagon, and I’d have to take a bus to work.
For reference, yes, I want to make GS-15 eventually, but I also want to do meaningful work at a job I actually enjoy. In my current job, I don’t really see a vision anymore, and I’m just exhausted.
GS-14 at the Pentagon:
Pros:
- Job I would genuinely enjoy
- Work aligns with my interests
- Better exposure/networking
- Could open doors later on
Cons:
- Likely delays getting a GS-15
- Bus ride (though it’s paid for and only about 10 minutes away)
- Leaving a supervisory role
Stay at my current job:
Pros:
- I compete for a GS-15 now and would likely get it
Cons:
- I hate it
What are your thoughts?