I_EAT_DRYER_SHEETS's journey

I am an electrical engineer in my mid-20s working for a consulting firm where I've been employed since graduating college. I even interned with them before my senior year. Over the past nine months, I've taken on a lot more responsibility, leading design projects and managing teams on significant projects that contribute to the company's profits. I've also been mentoring newer employees and have received positive feedback from my seniors about the quality of my work. However, I feel that my efforts and the quality of my contributions are not reflected in my job title or salary. I'm currently classified as a junior engineer, but my work aligns more with that of a mid-level engineer. My peers have also noted that I should be promoted based on my performance. I've discussed my situation with my manager, who suggested I participate in a program for 'star' junior engineers to expedite promotions, but I didn't make the cut. When I asked about other options for a promotion and pay raise, he told me to be patient and that he would advocate for me, but there are no guarantees. I won't know about a potential promotion until next spring. I'm now questioning whether I should start looking for new opportunities or if I'm being too impatient. Any advice would be appreciated!