Should I leave my current IT support job for a Hardware Support + Networking role? (Kerala, India)
Currently working as a software support engineer in Infopark Koratty. 15k salary, 1 hour one-way travel, no growth — purely application support with maybe 20% implementation work on consumer grade hardware.
Got an offer from an IT company in Thrissur — Hardware Support Executive (System and Networking). 20k salary, less travel. Responsibilities include router/switch/firewall configuration, server maintenance, LAN/WAN troubleshooting, CCTV/biometric support. Around 5-10 client site visits per week across 8 companies mainly jewelry and small finance sectors.
My long term goal is Linux/DevOps/Cloud. I have basic Docker, Kubernetes knowledge, currently preparing for RHCSA.
The new role has no Linux work (confirmed in interview). But has real networking and firewall exposure which I can't easily replicate at home.
Is this a good move for someone targeting Linux/DevOps long term? Or should I stay and grind certifications while job hunting for something better?