I know you don't want to hear this, but you're just going to have to give it time. Most of us are bored by the day-in-day out of our jobs most of the time. It's a bit like love: there are fireworks and excitement at the beginning, and then you settle in to quiet routine.

The best advice I've ever been given is to manage expectations. You're doing the right thing by asking for more work and striving to prove you can handle things. Keep lying low for a few weeks more...keep your ears open and listen a LOT for what's really going on underneath the surface. You'll find the right time and way to make more "exciting" contributions. And in the meantime, find something outside of work to get excited about and look forward to!

If only!

But I'm sure that's not as fun as it sounds.

I think it depends on how long you have been at the new job. What happens (sometimes) is that you're given all the boring jobs first until people learn what you're capable of and can gauge your skills.

What also happens sometimes in large companies is that people are so busy they don't have time to train the new guy, so they throw you little projects that have been piling up without taking the time to really get you involved in something juicy because it will take them time to prep you.

What I would suggest is to consider those two possibilities -- you're being tested and you're being (kinda) ignored. If those two things don't seem to explain it and you think you're likely to fall asleep at your desk any moment, ask your manager if he/she has some time to talk in the near future ... maybe even sit down to lunch together or take a walk and talk about what you feel you have to offer and ask how you can better channel all that you've learned and are capable of doing.

If the two of you can't figure out a way to fully employ your talents then you may have to start looking for something that will get your excitement factor up. Just don't jump before you've landed something new.

Good luck. (and, take a nap for me, will ya?)