After a few months attempting to find another company and locale to apply my science/engineering skills - I'm still looking. Multiple interviews with a couple of smaller outfits have not resulted.
It is truly a hard time in general, but I'm convinced the EM tattoo on my forehead is a factor.
This is not to discourage others. I'm going to continue this quest, knowing that the company you've worked for and the culture you're assumed to have acquired is not you.
Not in your professional interest or capabilities.
A pothole, yes, but at least in my case only a 6 year pothole.
All in all - the most positive body english (that is, Zoom english) I've seen is when I've mentioned the desire to leave a global conglomerated commodity monster which deprecates actual science, and engineering for that matter.
That got an appreciative nod and hand to the chin from almost every potential decider.
That - and getting out of Texas. That received firm nods and even a tear in the eye once.
So - keep the confidence high!
I'll update once something happens - but I'm separating by any means necessary.
As another poster said.
Even a pip will do.