Context engineer in manufacturing. I’ve been at my current job for 5 months. It’s not great and I’m looking to move on. However, I want to stay long enough that I can have it on my resume without awkward questions. How long do you think that should be?
I would feel weird listing anything less than a year. I feel like it takes a year to really get up to speed on a job, in engineering anyway, before you’re out of training and really say if it’s for you. (I’m not talking about actually miserable conditions like bad team, bad safety, etc.)
Keep it positive and about your goals, and explain why the company you’re applying to can fulfill your goals. Focus on the future while sprinkling in something positive about what you did at the past job.
"While there I accomplished X, however the position did not meet my career goal of Y. I’m looking to join your team as an Z here continue developing my skills in Y.
Here’s an example; you’re goal is to be park ranger. Last park only had you doing trash pick up. The park your applying for does all kinds of community engagement/event type stuff.
“While there I had a fulfilling job keeping the parks clean, however the position was not leading me towards my goal to become a park ranger. I’m looking to join your team as a junior ranger to continue developing my skills for community events and continuing my work of preserving the environment.”
Fluff it up a bit to not sound scripted and you’ll be fine.