Roles are meaningless, every company have their own. If you think you are senior, you'll put the "Senior..." in your linkedin profile (and CV) to get future off

Roles are meaningless, every company have their own. If you think you are senior, you'll put the "Senior..." in your linkedin profile (and CV) to get future offers. So I don't think you're taking a step back at all (unless you are getting a salary cut as well, then yes, don't do it). I did exactly the same: I was tech lead at company X (staff engineer) but then I quit to join company Y working just as a normal senior engineer. I got a 20% bump in salary raise... and now I have ahead more levels with the senior level to grown to (and also levels within the staff level as well)... whereas at company X I as already thinking about switching to management (I didn't want that either). Also, I do always the same kind of job no matter where I am: if I can lead, I lead, if I can mentor I mentor... it doesn't really matter if that's my role or not. If you're really a leader, then they will notice and will promote you within their imaginary and meaningless career path ladder.