Today I reapplied for a job as animal care technician at The Mayo Clinic here in Rochester MN... I applied for it in May-June, same time as my current job. I received a letter that they were not going to fill the position until further notice, and today I noticed that the job listing was posted once again.

My dilemma is that I really like my current job, and being a small business I'm the only employee...so I feel really pressured to stay. I know eventually after the business takes off my boss was planning to hire one or two more employees, but as of now he relies on me for saltwater care and general livestock maintenance/sales. It may be a year, two, or more before the time comes for new employees. I enjoy working with aquatics, but feel that the other position would be a better long term career and help achieve some of my future goals.

The new job would start out at a much greater pay, that I know my boss cannot meet due to budget, as well as full benefits (Health Care, Retirement plan...that jazz), and the means to finally move out on my own. I feel so compelled to stay where I'm at though mainly because he was my store manager at the old pet store, brought be over to his store with him, and didn't have to do that but needed my saltwater experience, and he relies on me for many other responsibilities...

The new job is close to what I've been thinking about pursuing for a career (Vet Tech) through a slightly different avenue, but much better pay....and once working there, Mayo would pay for any continued ed.

I feel selfish for wanting this new job, but bad that I'd leave the old high and dry. I believe that the new one is best for me and where I want to go...I just don't know what to do. My mom is encouraging me to take the new position if accepted. (However biased, she works for Mayo as a RN)

What would you do? Stay, or if accepted go work for new position?

-Jason