Returning to a science career

[nammynake]

Mods - please leave this here. I originally posted in the Jobs forum but had little response.

I have worked in Credit Risk (retail banking) for 7 years since graduating with a PhD in Astrophysics. Prior to that I did a degree in Physics. Over the last couple of years I have grown increasingly frustrated at the politics involved and the lack of opportunities to really stretch myself technically.

I find myself scanning science job sites for interesting vacancies that are local. I don't want to go back to academia, and having such a long break I don't think I would stand a chance anyway, so I'm looking more at the private sector.

Has anyone here returned to science following either a career break or other career? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts. I am preparing myself for a significant pay cut should I move, but the thought of staying in banking until I retire brings me out in a cold sweat!