Help! Need to make a decision in a few days! 1

[global9000]

Hi,

I posted on this board several months ago and received some good advice. Thought I would give it a try again.

I am currently working as an EE in a plant. My duties involve:
-Control system upgrading/modification. This involves some PLC programming, designing control schematics using ACAD, and of course getting the system to work properly.
-Electrical system add-ons (ie. specifying and purchasing cable, transformers, circuit-breakers, switchgear, etc for any expansion or upgrade projects)

I have been doing this for less than 1 year.

I worked as a technologist for 4 years primarily working in instrumentation and process control before I went back to school to complete my degree. I also worked in the hi-tech semiconductor industry for 1 year, that damn bubble bursting took care of that job in a hurry.

So now that you have an idea of what my experience is... I am having a hard time making a decision and the clock is ticking! I have been offered a position with a hi-tech firm which will pay me about 20% more in annually salary, but I'm not sure if I should take the job.

To me the pros of taking this job are:
-more pay
-industry pays better on average
-the work would be more interesting than my current position

Cons of taking the new job:
- I think I may be a bit old (31) to be venturing off into hi-tech again.
- I have about 5 years combined experience in instrumenation, control, and electrical design. This compared to 1 year working in hi-tech.
- Threat of outsourcing still exists. Canada is rich in resources. Not sure how you can outsource oil, gas and precious metals.
- In 2 more years I will be able to obtain my P.Eng if I stick with what I'm doing and it will actually be useful.


So what do you all think I should do? Your responses would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[ctopher]

You are not too old. I did it at 42. If you like the new job, which seems like you do, I say go for it.
Also, the threat of outsourcing is everywhere.

Chris
Systems Analyst, I.S.
SolidWorks 06 4.1/PDMWorks 06
AutoCAD 06
ctopher's home (updated 06-21-05)

 

[PSE]

I would think that you would still be able to continue toward a P.Eng working in the new job. Never think that you are too old to change. It just takes a little more work than usual. If it is something you want to do, try it. Semi-conductor tends to be a bit boom/bust (I did the roller coaster for 5 years). If by high-tech, you mean semi-conductor again, do your research thoroughly on the company (you should for any that you might work for).

Good luck,

 

[scottiesei]

Wow, from a 29 year old I hope I don't sound like you when I am 31! I know several PE's that did not get licensed until their 40's. I also agree with the other comments about still on track for your PE. Just make sure on your exit, that you obtain something in writing verifying your years of experience in case you can not secure a letter later. Also, make sure not to burn any bridges and keep in contact with the PE's there when you leave. 20% is HUGE. That will be a life changing event. Go for it!!!!

 

[corus]

31 is far too old. At that age you're burnt out, dead wood, need putting out to grass, not much use really. Forget about promotion, job opportunites, pay-rises, enjoying life etc. You're running out of time, there's no point in changing now when you've only 30 years or so to wait for your pension. You may as well stay where you are, comfortable with what you know, content you'll never learn anything new, happy being a wage donkey.

Your manager

corus

 

[scottiesei]

Corus,
That was great....

 

[Ashereng]

What is more important to you?

If you want money, go with the 20% raise.
If you have enough money, go with the job that appeals more to you.

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[ornerynorsk]

Opportunity seldom knocks more than once. I'd go for it. More pay and more interesting work, sounds like a no-brainer. Age 31? please, spare us. You're just starting !!!

 

[IRstuff]

I think the only issue is whether you are developing a trend of being a job-hopper.

And why does age enter into a decision about "high-tech," whatever that means? If anything, the only thing standing between you and Alzheimer's is probably getting your gray cells more serious workouts.

TTFN

 

[waskillywabbit]

I guess I'm dead...I started my engineering career at 37.

Brian

 

[global9000]

Doing work in Electrical power, controls and instrumentation is completely different than working as an IC designer. I guess I should have been a little more clear on what the job in hi-tech is. Taking this new job would mean leaving my current field not just my current job.

I spoke with a plant manager and he said that finding EEs with traditional skill sets is tough.

Do I take more money now or wait it out for a better job in my current field.

 

[IRstuff]

Well, WHAT IS IT THAT YOU REALLY WANT? Do you want to be an IC designer or not? Or do you want to do controls? Do you want to be a PE or not?

Why are these questions to ask strangers? The money, to the first order of analysis, is, or should be, irrelevant to your decision. Making lots of money at a job that you hate is not a formula for happiness. Making lots of money at something that you love is simply wonderful.

TTFN