I'm a mid-level IC and this job market is brutal. I have over 30 years of work experience across different roles/industries and got into CDM in 2021. I have an academic research background and got my degree later in life. I specifically upskilled to get into CDM and I've excelled in the role (likely due to my previous research experience, strong work ethic, and overall work experience history). Unfortunately, most of the CDM jobs require 5+ YOE and I only have 3.5. I can absolutely handle a Senior CDM role but everyone is very strict about YOE in teh role and not open to considering overall years of work experience like there are no transferable skills whatsoever from other industries or even base knowledge of clinical research from all the volunteer work I did while getting my degree. I don't share my living expenses with anyone so there is no one to lean on financially and it seems like there is a general toxicity in the industry.
I'm looking to hear where others have pivoted to or have thought about pivoting to. I've considered project management since I'm in a position to study and get the PMP certification but I've been reading that field is struggling too. Thoughts or suggestions?