Frustrated: work related - need advice

[bairbury]

I’m feeling very under-utilized at my job right now.  I’m so bored and I’m dying for more responsibilities and just more work in general.  I’ve been with this company for a little over a year and half and in my current position for about a year now. I really like the company and the industry. 

Here’s the problem. I know I haven’t received the entire list of job duties originally presented to me when I took this position. I’ve gone to my boss on two separate occasions looking for more work. I’ve asked coworkers continuously if they need help with anything or if they have any projects (sometimes I do get small projects to work on). The rest of my department is so busy and running around with their heads cut off and all I want to do is help!! … I know I’m capable and I do good work. I just want to be busy!!

Any advice on what I should do? Would you look for a new job? OR wait until my review and bring it up again to my boss?

I just feel as though I could be working some place different with more responsibilities, making more money, and being appreciated more. This whole situation is really depressing me and making me feel worthless.

[mrsfarmer]

I went through this at my previous job for about the last 10 or so months. Begging for work, afraid they would cut my hours. I finally documented what I wanted to do. My boss basically said no. I tried for other positions, talked to HR, they really only took me seriously once I found my new job and put in my notice. Everything was discussed in my exit review. I am a lot happier overall at my new job.