Ask HN: how do you avoid burnout and getting taken advantage of? 17 years ago
jquery,
I think the answer to your question is quite clear to me. Be the founder or part of the founding team at your next startup. What's been holding you back, you seem to be a good enough engineer to either be part of an upcoming YC class or do it on your own? You'll work just as hard, but I think the satisfaction will be much greater, and of course a financial upside if it works out!
Good Luck