Ask Reg: Can I negotiate my federal salary offer?

The following is a question submitted by a reader to Federal Times columnist Reg Jones, a charter member of the senior executive service and the resident expert on federal employee retirement issues.

A Fed Times reader asks:

“I am a federal employee and I am hoping you will be able to provide some insight for my perplexing situation.

I was hired in February 2023 as a GS-5 Step 1.

In May 2023, I moved to another division within that department and became a GS-6. I currently work in this position.

I have received an offer for a position with another department. The hiring salary offer is for the same amount as my current salary.

With that being said, my question is: am I able to negotiate a step increase within my current grade for this new position? I understand there are certain limitations that apply, but if I am able to increase steps in pay grade-- exactly how many steps higher could I go?

I should mention, I have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, as well as relevant experience outside of my federal employment for the position. I should mention that the position is open to the public, as well.

Reg’s response:

Departments and agencies vary in the latitude they give their supervisors and managers to vary the step they offer to a prospective employee. Beyond that, those who have the authority to do that will be guided by two things: the urgency of their need to fill the position and the qualifications of the applicant.

You can always ask for a higher step when you interview for the job and see how it plays out.