Feeling disillusioned after starting new role

I’m an ME with about 10 years experience. I started in a not so technical role, but have made it my ambition to change that.

I did 2 years as a project engineer. Quickly realised that was not engineering and wanted out.

Then I did 4 years as a maintenance engineer. Work was a bit more technical, but still not where I wanted to be.

Next I transitioned into a design role, where I designed heat exchangers and pressure vessels. I was able to build on my previous experience where I did a lot of inspection, assessment and repair of vessels in service. However, after 3-4 years I got bored of the design by rule approach. It seemed like the “real” design work was being done in FEA.

I spent months studying, and applied to roles where I could learn FEA. I was very fortunate to find my ideal job after around 6 months. The salary was a small step up, but the company and learning opportunities were big. I thought I could really develop myself and aspire to be on a high salary in the future.

Since starting I have discovered that the type of work I want to do, FEA of heat exchangers, is being done by fresh graduates. I was shocked to discover this, as I feel like it has taken me 10 years to get the knowledge required to do this role. And now I fear I will struggle to get meaningful pay rises, if the juniors on half my salary are doing the same work as me.

Has anyone else experienced something like this?