I agree completely, especially regarding benefits. A lot of folks will look at a base pay rate and turn down the job because they will have $1000/month less "fu

I agree completely, especially regarding benefits. A lot of folks will look at a base pay rate and turn down the job because they will have $1000/month less "fun money" than if they take the job across the street. What they don't understand is the job across the street has shitty healthcare plans, little or no investments/stock options/pensions, less or less flexible paid leave, and so on. I went back into government work specifically for the benefits, even though the pay was no more than I was already making at a private company. That company wasn't offering me any health insurance and I had to fight tooth and nail for any time off, paid or otherwise. At my current job, while it's not as mentally stimulating, I can retire at 50 years old with my sanity, full benefits, and retirement intact, and work for myself in my golden years without fear of losing health and life insurance.