Would you stay or leave?

[RachelGreensHair]

I'm in a temporary role that ends Nov 2023. They've told me that I've proven a permanent need for this role and before November they will advertise it as such as I can apply for it. The role is £59k with 27% employer contribution to pension. I like the job and people, but am slightly bored by it.

I've been offered a 12 month contract role (likely to be expected as project doesn't end until 2025/6) for an organisation I worked closely with in a precision role, and absolutely excites me. It's £350pd inside IR35 and obvs no access to their pension scheme.

I can't make my mind up and need to make a decision very very soon. I wonder about giving up a stable job with nice people and generous pension. Versus doing something exciting for temporary time only.

All and any advice appreciated, thank you.

Is the pension a DB or DC scheme? Are there other benefits, e.g. healthcare, training opportunities etc?
The inside contract would still allow you to make your own pension contributions so you could still potentially be slightly better off financially on the contract.
If you are bored now, would it get better if you went permanent? More interesting projects, prospects for promotion? The perm job has a generous pension and the advantage of relative job security, but is it enough to not have itchy feet after a few months?

It's a civil service pension.

How old are you OP?

Stay in post and post and look for something else if you want to. I wouldn't jump for a 12 month contract but I'm in the construction industry so things are going to get rocky.

I'm early 40s.

It's tricky. To me, the more boring job is definitely better financially (pension, T&Cs, paid holiday etc). BUT it depends if you can put up with the lack of excitement.

Could you take the job & then look for a more exciting role in-house?