Don't do it. If they repost you might be under different protections if they've reclassified the position. If you then get RIF'd it will be harder to find a job in the private sector in this economy. Also, if you took a buy out, remember the 5-year prohibition on returning. Focus on why you left in the first place.

It depends on where you think we are in the TACO cycle. Maybe consider what JD Vance will do if he becomes president.

If they are reposting the job that's a good sign that someone realized it's permanently necessary.

I was a fed from 1991-1998. I've been working at a big F500 since grad school. My agency was hardworking and very effective. I did not have any private sector culture shock when I started working. I've seen deadwood employees at both places and morale always depends on economic conditions and job stability. When times are bad in private industry, people get wacky because their livelihood is on the line.

I'd say consider going back.

I mean…it’s a terrible place to work now.

If that is what your gut is telling you, follow it. Start reapplying now because it may take a while with the way things are going right now.

Can’t hurt to try

So jealous of someone who loved their job!

Go for it

I left Fed gov for a new position when the doge stuff happened. I’d been there 15 years- basically my whole career- and I loved, loved my job. I want to go back and they are going to repost. I think that was just the perfect job for me and the private sector is a big change. Returning would be silly right now right??