I have been working as an “EIT II” for about a year now. I am graduated undergrad six years ago, passed the FE then, and worked for GCs for five years. I did strictly project management, no design and no licensed engineers working for the companies I worked for. I didn’t mind the construction management side, but was missing the critical thinking that structural design has to offer. I’ve enjoyed learning structural design and flexing my brain. But after a year of it I find myself struggling. I get distracted and bored at work and can’t focus. I feel like I only put in 20 hours of decent work in a 40-45 hour work week. And to add to it, my previous employer reached out and wants me back and is willing to pay handsomely for it. I make good money now, I don’t feel like I’m underpaid for my value in the design world. I am told a do a great job here, and my previous employer told me I did great there too.

Am I overthinking this? If I only moderately enjoy the work at either place, should I take the pay raise? I would say my old company has a better culture in general, they are great people to work with and be with. Currently most of my communication with coworkers is through phone calls.

Any advice from this wise group?