I am a 46 y/o pilot making approximately 40K for a state govt. agency. In my job I primarily fly a single engine airplanes in VFR conditions and occasionally a Navajo. At this time, I'm vested and 15 years into a 25 year defined benefit retirement that will pay 75% of gross for life. The cons with this job are no raise in five years and no real promotional opportunities. Despite this, I'm feeling the need for new challenges in aviation.

Would you stay until 55 to complete the state retirement and hope for later opportunities or leave?

My stats -
Com Inst. AMEL, ATP Written
5000 total
600 ME PIC
200 ME Turbine PIC