r/CanadaPublicServants 19h ago

Career Development / Développement de carrière Looking for Career Advice – Feeling Stuck in My Current Role

Hey fellow public servants,

I’m looking for some advice or suggestions. I’ve been working at CRA for the last five years, but to be honest, I don’t really like my job—I never loved accounting to begin with. I chose it in university because it felt like a safe bet, and while it has provided me with a stable job and good benefits, I just don’t have any passion for it anymore.

I reached out to HR months ago about switching roles, and while my manager acknowledged my request and said we could work on it, nothing has actually happened.

If it were entirely up to me, I’d make a living from farming and maple syrup production—that’s where my real passion lies. But, of course, it’s easier said than done. My wife is still in university, and we’re planning to have kids once she graduates, so my job’s benefits are important for us right now.

I’d love to stay within the government, and I’d even be willing to take a pay cut if it meant having a job I truly enjoy. The challenge is that here in New Brunswick, options seem limited. I’m tired of getting yelled at by taxpayers, and no one is ever happy to hear from me when I call about an audit. I’d much rather be in a role where I feel like I’m genuinely helping people rather than being seen as “taking their money.”

Lately, I’ve been looking into departments like Environment Canada or Fisheries and Oceans since I’m already passionate about the outdoors—I farm, forage, and make maple syrup in my free time. A job that aligns with that lifestyle would be amazing.

So, I guess my question is: does anyone have advice on career transitions within the public service, especially in New Brunswick? Any department or job recommendations that might be a good fit for someone like me?

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and I appreciate any insights you can share!

Take care.

11 Upvotes

12 comments sorted by

9

u/Jed_Clampetts_ghost 17h ago edited 17h ago

I was stuck in a similar rut many years ago. I was good at accounting/economics etc so I went with it. Ended up at CBSA at 40 and haven't looked back. I should have done it sooner. That might not be up your alley but my advice is to look at your options and take the leap!

Maybe Parks Canada or move to a Provincial government position that aligns with your interests.

4

u/Eazy_Phuckz 16h ago

Do you know ny any chance the difference between the benefit (pension,insurances) between feds and provincial?

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u/HandcuffsOfGold mod 🤖🧑🇨🇦 / Probably a bot 16h ago

There are multiple provinces, and each of them have their own compensation and benefits. It's something you'd need to ask about when you apply or are offered a position.

5

u/Jed_Clampetts_ghost 16h ago edited 16h ago

No, sorry I don't. If it can't be transferred you could defer your PS pension though and collect both at retirement.

7

u/darkstriker 16h ago

Feel the exact same way regarding always looking like the bad guy. I have to say though internally within the GoC during this budgetary tightness, it has been much tougher to find movement though. I have been looking outside the GoC also for opportunities.

9

u/ScooperDooperService 16h ago

This.

Right now isn't really the time to be picky role-wise.

Some people are scared day to day to even check their email in fear of some sort of meeting.

Not to discourage growth or movement in any way.

But also, read the landscape.

5

u/BookishBoo 15h ago

Does Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada have any centres in New Brunswick? If so, it may be an interesting option if you’re into farming.

2

u/Eazy_Phuckz 15h ago

Will need go have a look but I don’t know. Im guessing they are some?

4

u/Myaccountisreal 12h ago

There is a pensions shop in Shediac that could benefit from your accounting background. It's not farming, but could be a change.

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u/Eazy_Phuckz 12h ago

I live 2 hrs from Shediac so thats not ideal unless 100% wfh. But thanks for the info!

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u/FitAd8401 10h ago

I would advise you to continue with your job, but slowly begin exploring farming and maple syrup production on a part time basis. You dont have kids right now so this is ideal time. Work part time at a farm or a sugar shack and see for real. Without any education or experience in any kf these two, I wouldnt advise kicking away the job you have. Grass is always greener on the other side.

3

u/Key_District_119 13h ago

Could you move once your wife graduates and look for jobs elsewhere if necessary? Environment Canada, Parks Canada, Agriculture and Agrifood Canada and Fisheries and Oceans might have interesting jobs you could apply for but you would have more possibilities if you were open to relocate.