How to negotiate salary base on education in reference to a government job?
Asked by Waquele H
I am currently up for a government position with my City's Solicitor office. the position is a Program Legal Assistant. The salary range for the position is 31-47's. I have two years of law enforcement experience as well as a B.S. Political Science and a Master's in Public administration with an empahasis in Business Administration. When I interviewed by the City Solicitor he told me that the postition was an unclassified position and that he could hire whomever he sees fit and he doesnt have to go through a register. So, with that being said am I able to negotiate my salary? If so, what should I ask for?

Best Answer:
ask for what you want to make there maybe slightly higher as they'll prob try to negotiate downwards. Never take a job for less than you would want to make for doing it... If you're not happy with your compensation you won't be happy with your job.

Generally, the range listed for a government position tells you the starting rate and the highest rate for a particular job class. Based on experience and/or education, you can perhaps ask to start at the second step. Usually, and especially if it's a position that is difficult to fill, they will usually be willing to make some concessions. The problem with that is, government employees, in my experience, are pretty territorial. They don't like that someone may be coming in the door that doesn't have to start at the bottom of the pay scale like they did. It can cause bad feelings if it gets out that you hired in at a higher step. My suggestion would be not to bring up the pay rate until you are given an offer of employment. Then you can bring it up and see where the city stands on hiring you in at the higher rate. Even if you don't get the higher rate right away, the good news is that the step increases come pretty quickly in the government work. Good luck!
Answered by whydewyouask@sbcglobal.net

Government jobs are so difficult to predict salary wise. They'll try to get you in at the lowest rate. Trying to negotiate could be a double-edged sword because the office may decide they want someone who is willing to take their low-ball offer. What exactly does the Program Legal Assistant do? If your experience actually fits the requirements and you get a low salary offer (31), see if you can get the mid-range (39), but you may have to settle for less. It all depends on how much the solicitor wants you to work for him and whether he's willing to settle for his second choice (assuming you are the first choice) for less money (does this solicitor get a bonus if he doesn't use all the money he has?)
Answered by Star