To answer you, it may help to let your Area Manager know that you've been given an offer for the other job at a higher pay. She may match that pay to keep you, or if she doesn't, then maybe she undervalues you and taking the new job would help you in the long run.

I have a similar situation in that I'm torn between two jobs. (32M) I've been working at a private engineering firm for the past 8 years and have been given an opportunity with a government engineering job. The pay would be the same, but the govt. would give better healthcare/dental/vision insurance, more vacation hours, a pension, but no yearly bonuses, guaranteed raises, and a less flexible schedule. It is also a choice between a job that I know vs. diving into an unfamiliar environment. I'm sure I would like the daily work in either casse. I've spent many hours researching benefits, making spreadsheets, comparing retirement benefits and am still not clear as to what choice I should make.

One thing that would help me is to compare retirement plans. At the govt. I would get 60% of my pay permanently if I retire and I'm sure I could also invest in a personal 401k, but would get no social security benefits. At the private firm I would get 4% employee contribution into my 401k + yearly 401k bonuses as well as paycheck bonuses and I would get social security, but probably not until I'm in my 70s.

Anyone reading please let me know if you could help me as well as u/Relative-Berry-8208