I think it's a very pertinent question, just like asking someone "Are you happy?".

The definitions of happiness and satisfaction are different for each person, and even for the same person these vary over time, often unpredictably.

I guess this would be the list of questions one should ask herself/himself to measure their job satisfaction. This is the order that applies to me, a middle-aged, married, father of two; the order of questions would be different for others.

  1. Do I need to work for money?
    - If not, you don't _need_ to work but choose to work.
      + Hence the question of job satisfaction is moot.
    - If you're working to earn money, the question of job satisfaction is pertinent.
      + This applies even if you work for yourself or own a business.
  2. Am I making enough money to not worry about money?
    - If not, I'm not going to be satisfied at the job, irrespective of the all other circumstances at work/office.
    - Ask yourself: Am I able to
      + pay my bills
      + support my lifestyle, or lower the cost of lifestyle without too much inconvenience
      + take care of my and loved ones' health, wellness, education, plan for future/retirement, etc.
  3. Do my coworkers respect me/my work?
    - Coworkers include anyone who you work with: peers, subordinates, managers, their managers, etc.
  4. Do I _want_ to do the job?
    - You may have started with certain set of expectations, but over time the expectations and preferences change.
  5. Am I able to do my job?
    - Various circumstances may prevent you from doing your job.
  6. Am I able to do my job the way _I_ want to?
    - Getting the job done, and getting it done "right" are different things.
    - Adjust own expectations and try to understand why your way may not be the best way to do the job.
  7. Am I allowed to do new things, if/when I want to?
    - If you want to, are you allowed to work outside your defined role?
    - Is that work you did outside of your job definition appreciated?