Should I take this terrible job?
The company I'm interviewing with is a shitshow. They are a national competitor in my industry and do the same work I'm doing now. But the rumor mill says the local office had the field manager and all the field techs walk out 6+ months ago and they haven't been able to replace any of them. They have been flying people in from out of state ever since.
I originally applied for a PM role but they are being cagey about what my actual job title would be. I think they have a PM already but I can't get them to tell me what their current org chart is. They just say things like "We all wear a lot of hats" and change the subject. To me, It looks like what they really need is a do-it-all field manager to rebuild the department and fill a bunch of skilled labor positions. But the policy issues that caused everyone to quit still exist and they seem unwilling to correct them. I know a lot of skilled techs in my area, a few of which are disgruntled in their current role, but I'm not confidant any of them would take the job the way things are currently structured.
They are being very upfront about pay. Their willing to give me a 26% bump over my current wage which is at market for my role. No official offer letter yet, but it has been discussed multiple times as a non-issue.
I like my current job. I'm good at it and well respected but I've hit a glass ceiling. My pay is capped in my current role and I've been passed over for the last 3 promotions I've pursued. I'm sure they won't promote me because they would struggle to find someone else who is both willing and able to do what I'm doing now. I feel pretty safe from layoffs as well. If a recession affects us in the future there's a lot of people to lay off before me. That kind of security isn't something to toss away lightly. Especially living in the US today.
If I could fix this department it could really make my career. I'm 40 and have no kids, no wife, no debt. I'm in a place where I can take a gamble. If they offer me field manager that would be a lateral-ish move for a bunch more money. If I'm successful, then great. If I fail, like I think I will, then what? Start looking for another lateral move? Its a small industry, Im not likely to find an opening when I need it and be forced to take a step or two backward. If they give me the PM title that I applied for at least I would be gaining experience to maybe move my career forward.
Thoughts? Am I dumb to even consider this? I really don't want to fail for a living.