Seconded. I can't give you advice. I can tell you my story. When faced with almost wanting to quit the new job because I am used to getting my hands dirty, not being quasi-management. I hate setting in meetings about "efficient use of powerpoint..." I'm not fond of being a trainee for the next TWO YEARS, when I'm 41. However, I am fond of the decent paycheck and the job security of now being in a manufacturing industry that actually makes something, instead of a service industry. My new boss, knowing I was troubled, knowing I hate the hour commute had this to say:
" I know your frustrated . I know your considering leaving. I know now that your employed again, finding something else would be easier. I know you wonder how you will have a family on this schedule. I would not like to see you leave. However, There is NO right or wrong choice, when you are not facing a crisis. (long pause and a smile here) If its that bad, I will support you finding a place where your happy. However, I urge you to take the time to consider what you would be doing more closely."
He had a point.
So unless you are in trouble, think carefully. There is NO right or wrong in this job choice, you probably win or loose either way.
Be cautious however. Why do I say that, you have presented a uncertain contradiction in your post.
Be humble. "Be like a child" (Quote from the Good Book)
Factoid:
Being a entrepreneur sucks away your time, I assure you. You will NOT have short hours, you will not see the family that much. You might as well just send the wife the check and move into the plant. I know, I've consulted to enough of them.
The ones who are at peace, get their wives active in the community, to keep the relationships strong. Of they have wives that understand, and can manage the freedom to make their own day to day decisions. Most of them I have met have had one or more companies TAKEN from them, once they made a profit.
Work is work. You want the big bucks, you go to school, spend long hours at the plant, and you pay your dues/do your time on the line jobs. If you think the grass is greener, remember your a senior engineer. You will have to act like one and have the same or similar duties and hours at plant "B".
I sent you a PM with what I cannot say in public about the "emerging market", as we must call it at work. Its not a happy situation, especially with regards to electronics.
Ask if the wife/kids can come with you on the shorter trips, My company allows that.
I too, face three week periods on the road. I wonder how I will find a girlfriend that would accept that... Then I realized she would want the paycheck,, and benefits, and time to herself. If I can't find one smart enough to see that, I've found a loser anyways. I know its bad advice to tell you to ask your wife. But I suggest you ask her what she thinks.. That is what she is there for, I'm told. Having never married, I would not know...
BTW< It sucks to be a unemployed older white male in most western countries right now. That much I can say is truth, not advice. One and a half years of setting around broke was not fun.
Steve