National lab postdoc- stay as staff scientist or go into industry?

Hi all,

Just for some context, i work as post doc doing computational geophysics at a national lab. It’s going well and handling lots of projects, but I am seeking to transition into industry for better WLB and $$$.

The question I have is, should (1) I convert to staff scientist first for the experience before going into industry, or (2) simply not waste the time and try to switch out before converting.

Thanks!