I recently was told that my resume was found on USAJOBS. The position was initially for a GS12, however the highest level I've held is a 9. The person hiring me told me he would bring me in as an 11. I know legally all he has to offer me is an 11 step 1. However, with the COLA I have here, as a gs 8 step 7 I make as much as a GS 12 step 6. I just work a lot of built in OT. I'm more than thankful to have this chance, but my wife and I are worried that with the high cost of living in the area will be too much if I have to take a 20-40K pay cut. How can I respectfully and tactfully request to be stepped out as an 11?
View all comments
An SQA, or superior qualifications analysis is the process by which additional step(s) can be awarded. You’re confusing with HPR/MPR which would be your highest previous rate. As you were previously a GS-09/03, this can be taken into consideration but its use is optional. It isn’t required by OPM regulation, which means management doesn’t have to honor it.
I agree with you. Looking at RUS, I land on 11/1 regardless of whether you calculate for 8/6 or 9/3 anyway. I’m beginning to think OP is trying to make up for lost OT earning
You may be right. Ultimately the HR POC working his offer would be the one who knows what his pay will look like. I may be HR but I’m certainly not his HR so not qualified to give advice further than this
Understand and agree. Seems OP may have been selected from a DE announcement. He could ask in that case to be considered for superior qualifications but I think it will be a non starter since all he has is government experience at the lower grade.
Hiring authority doesn't affect pay setting. You have to be new to the govt or have a 90 day break in service to get a superior qualifications appointment.