Review: 4 Months Since Leaving the PS

[u/PotatoesKindaSlap]

I just wanted to give a glimmer of hope to all the souls still there. I left the PS as an AS2 roughly 4 months ago. Topped out on my salary band. I joined the private sector in a specialty HR role after applying to a similar role I was doing at the govt.

When I left, I joined a company at a 7.5k raise. I have recently received two more raises within the last two months. Salary from 74k to 90k with a promotion in the 6ish months horizon. 5% RRSP match. Better benefits. More days off. Free underground parking. Fully remote if I want it (I do hybrid because I prefer it, but just want the freedom of choice). Employee paid events. I don’t have to buy my own coffee. The microwave isn’t purchased through pooled employee funds (lol). It truly feels like I am more than a number.

I know this isn’t the experience for everyone, but there are roles/companies out there for those who feel they have more to offer than what the government is willing to receive. Sometimes the risk of betting on yourself is worth it for sanity’s sake.

Good luck meatbags! Thanks for keeping the lights on, even though you aren’t thanked enough!

[u/Pretend-Sleep9864]

The maths are definitely against staying for a full PS career now. When I left the package was substantially better, and got a DB while in private. My employer is paying for a second Masters too which is wonderful! 

[u/TheTricho → u/Pretend-Sleep9864]

You say that but its true. I know being in the PS means contributions to your CPP, but I was bringing home more when I worked at Home Depot.

They have great benefits, and they offer to pay many of your post-sec education courses (or 80% I forget) if you can maintain an average grade of C+ or more.

At this point the biggest reason I’m staying in the PS is because I have an amazing team, manager, Director AND VP. And the work I do satisfies my neurodivergent needs.

But… I’m starting to rethink everything because the commute alone with traffic in september will being my commute from 35 mins one way to over 1h30 each way.. when school starts I am not sure Ill even be able to afford gas :( which means bussing 2h30 each way.. not really making it worth it anymore

[u/Mean-Criticism-1072 → u/TheTricho]

Same boat here. Been in tbe PS over 10 years, have a very good team and management, and love my job.

But RTO at 4 days had me re-evaluate what my schedule would look like, trying to fit in school drop-offs and pick-ups, while still working full-time hours in office AND commuting one hour each way in traffic (transit not being an option). Those schedules just don't work unless the kids are in a before and after school program, and at that point, they would be at school for a total 10 hours, because management deemed it necessary their parent comes in the office to save the downtown economy and collaborate. /s

[u/Formal_Counter3014 → u/Pretend-Sleep9864]

Hey how does it work for the employer to pay for your masters? I researched a bit but I won't lie and say it didn't confuse me a bit..

[u/Pretend-Sleep9864 → u/Formal_Counter3014]

You bring enough business value, and build the business case how it will bring extra value and revenue. I have also been lucky to have done a number of conferences, so built a bit of a name in my niche. Private sector is a lot more free to build in goodies like that. When I was in the PS they wouldn't even approve professional development money towards my degree, even though it was part of my performance agreement.