Would you go back to work now or later?

ENI36

I'm currently a SAHM and almost 6 months pregnant.  I want to go back to work at some point but I'm not sure the best time yet.  I've found a couple of jobs that I would be really well qualified for.  In some ways I want to wait until after the next baby is born to go back because it just seems easier to not have to deal with interviewing while pregnant, maternity leave, etc.  I also want to BF and I want to have a good supply established before going back to work.  

So I was thinking I could start looking for jobs when the baby is 3 months old or so.  But then I worry that I won't be able to find some of the job opportunities that I see available now (and that I qualify so well for).  I am in the biotech field and the technology is constantly changing and I've already been out of the field for over two years.  So wwyd in my situation?  Apply for the jobs now or wait and see what's available after the baby is born?

mrsseguin

I'd wait until after the baby.

KarlieeAnne

I would wait until after, I think your 3 month span is perfect. I took 12 weeks off and it really worked out in our favor. DD was starting to get out of new newborn stage that I didn't want to miss, and was becoming more socially aware, so it was the perfect time for us to get her interacting with other kids and adults. HTH.

Nechie122

I think you should apply now because of the simple reason that opportunity doesn't always knock twice. Plus, you have nothing to lose by interviewing. Sometimes the hiring process takes a long time and you could negotiate a late start date. Or maybe you don't get these positions but your resume is kept on file and you're called in when a similar role opens up (this happened to me.) I say go for it and see what happens. You can always turn the positions down if you think it would be too overwhelming. 

bearkatjen

If you see something that really interests you, then apply. If it an offer is made, and you still feel gunho then take it. If not, well nothing is lost. If you don't see anything you really like, then wait until you do. 

KL777

Wait until after the baby is born. Can you work part-time in your field 6 months after child #2 is born just to keep your "feet wet" in the field?

katiewhompus

I would apply and re-evaluate if you get an offer.

ENI36

KL777:

Wait until after the baby is born. Can you work part-time in your field 6 months after child #2 is born just to keep your "feet wet" in the field?

I wish I could.  Part time jobs in my field are very rare. 

reb562

As a hiring manager, I would be worried that you were out of the field for over 2 years, so waiting my hurt you.  At the very minimum keep up with your skills--Example: (i.e. take some classes, research what's going on, etc.) so when you interview you can sound up to date and that will help you.