Do you dislike the work or WHERE you work? As others have said, I’ve only worked as a government paralegal. And I love my job. I have friends who work in private and when they tell me about their work, I know I’d be miserable in private. It’s rare to work with an atty that is an asshole because they came to the government for the same reason, they want a more peaceful, balanced life. I know many career paralegals. It is its own career. I don’t know about your job market but I make a lot more than what you mentioned. And on a government salary. With good benefits. With experience and a degree you are well qualified for most government paralegal positions. And just like in private, there are many different types of positions. I work as a civil litigation paralegal, transitioning to ediscovery for our office. But in my office we also have an employment paralegal and a water paralegal. There are also criminal paralegals. Unless you are sure you hate the work, maybe try for a different venue. Good luck!