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It would be on the GS scale [1]. The GS scale has a set of levels and steps. If you're promoted, you generally go up a GS level. You go up steps with more ti
by cameldrv 6y ago
It would be on the GS scale [1]. The GS scale has a set of levels and steps. If you're promoted, you generally go up a GS level. You go up steps with more time in service. There are a number of adjustments, including an adjustment for cost of living. Generally if you only have a bachelor's, you're limited to GS-9.
Of course, the federal government provides excellent job security and good benefits, but the salary is not competitive for a software person.
The main problem is that the GS system essentially assumes that all PhDs and all Master's degrees are equally valuable, but the private market does not agree.
[1] https://www.federalpay.org/gs/2020 https://www.federalpay.org/gs/2020
- AndrewKemendo 6y agoOne correction here is that you are not limited to GS-9 with a BS only. GS-9 is often people with zero experience and a BS only depending on the position - like everything it's based on competitiveness. Recognize that the GS scale starts with people who have no formal education at all.
- grier 6y agoStarting out of school with a BS in computer science or computer engineering was GS 7 or 8, so around $40-50k/year. The salaries are public for each level. Additional degrees do not move you off the GS scale. Reaching the equivalent of executive level can mean moving beyond GS to the senior executive service (SES).
- emmelaich 6y agoI suspect places that require particular expertise have some mechanism to pay above the scale. That's the case in Australia, anyway.
- AlexDanger 6y agoHow do you know this?
- jjeaff 6y agoBut is total compensation competitive? I suspect it is closer than it seems since a career in the federal government can leave you retiring in your fifties getting nearly as much as you were making in the last few years until the day you die. Additionally, you continue to receive all the health benefits. I don't know of any tech companies offering defined benefit plans and health insurance after you retire.