I've been the main IT support for the public safety sector in my county for about a year and a half now. My role goes beyond just support; I manage systems that are crucial for medical, fire, and law enforcement agencies. Being responsible for these systems is stressful, and outages or even basic tasks like password resets can have serious consequences. I'm 26 years old and, while I make around $31 per hour with overtime options, the stress is overwhelming since I'm on call 24/7, and even when I take vacations, I have to be ready to respond. My work week usually involves 40-50 hours, but it feels like I'm clocking in more due to the mental load. It seems like this job doesn't have room for advancement or a good work-life balance, and I often feel burned out. I'm looking for advice on whether this situation is common in public sector IT and what my next steps should be to find a more sustainable job. Is it really better out there, or should I stay for the pension?
5 Answers
You need to prioritize your well-being over the job. If you feel like you’re constantly trading your life for work, it’s time for a change. Look for IT roles in the private sector—they may offer better work-life balance and pay. Try networking and updating your resume while you’re at it!
It sounds like a really tough spot to be in. Honestly, being on call 24/7 isn't just demanding; it's unreasonable. You deserve some time off without the constant worry of work! Have you had a candid discussion with your bosses about what you're handling? You might be able to negotiate for some help or at least adjust expectations. Don't hesitate to start looking for other opportunities, even if it means a short-term pay cut—your health is paramount!
I hear you! It sounds like the organization has unrealistic expectations. If there's no room for growth or support, it might be time to explore other opportunities. Sometimes the grass is greener! Don’t hesitate to reach out to other companies; they may appreciate your skills more. You deserve some peace in your life!
Honestly, if your current job is taking such a toll on your mental health, it’s worth exploring what's out there. It doesn’t have to be a dramatic career shift, but finding a job that respects your time will be life-changing! Just start applying and see what comes up.
It's really common in public sector IT to have such unrealistic demands due to budget constraints. But remember, being on call all the time isn't normal! Also, make sure you're properly logging your overtime. If you're working those extra hours, you should get credit for them. Talk to your union if needed. You might also want to look into automation tools to lighten your load, which could make a big difference.
Absolutely! If you can automate tasks, do it. It'll definitely alleviate some stress and give you more time to breathe.
Yeah, definitely push your management on this! You should be compensated for all that on-call time. If they won’t budge, it’s a sign to consider a change.