r/patentexaminer

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.

Is it normal to have this happen? It was what I was hoping for but I was wondering how rare this was?

Has anyone tried to use this benefit since the elimination of the CBA? Can I still apply to this program?

would anyone have any idea how far back the background check goes for applicants to become a registered patent agent? i have a dui from over twenty years ago and would like to know if i need to start trying to dig up court records. its not that i am trying to hide it, but mostly i see that background checks typically go back 7 to 10 years. getting the court record for this case might be difficult.

any help with info or insight on this would be greatly appreciated.