In many cases, if you have been employed within the last year at a certain salary AND that salary is higher than “Step One” of the grade level you’ve applied to, then with some negotiating, you’re likely to be able to have your current salary matched. Your chances are higher if the work you’ve actually been doing relate to the Federal job you’ve received an offer for; of course.
By “Match”, I don’t mean exactly. What I mean is you could get a “Step” in the grade you qualify for that is the closest to the salary of your former job.
Here are some examples to clarify:
You’re currently making $35k and received a job offer for a GS 5 (step 1 is $34,075) – You could negotiate a GS 5 step 2 which is $35210.
You’re currently making $80k and received a job offer for a GS 11 (step 1 is $62,467) – You could negotiate for a GS 11 step 10 which is $81,204, the top of the grade. Even though this would still be a pay cut, it’s significantly less of a pay cut from $51,630.
Federal salary negation is possible, but very complex! For more information about the GS pay Table for 2011, visit: http://www.opm.gov/oca/11tables/indexGS.asp . Be sure to scroll down to find your specific Salary Table for your geographic location.
Good luck!
