Software Engineer 1, Software Engineer 4... Often the title is bestowed to keep someone in a pay grade. ("Oh, we are really strict about salaries and only pay m

Software Engineer 1, Software Engineer 4... Often the title is bestowed to keep someone in a pay grade. ("Oh, we are really strict about salaries and only pay market rate. Everyone within the same title gets paid the same... But I think I can get you promoted to rank 22.")