job salary reqts

[Shawnee123]

I'm considering applying for a job with the city. I would stay in the public employees retirement system, get a car, and hopefully have much better pay. The job is Code Enforcement for the Health Department.

The thing is they want applicants to send salary requirements. How do I come up with a number? I have no idea what normal pay for a position such as this is (but as underpaid as I am assume it is more than I make now.) Should I shoot high, or does doing so take you out of the running instantly if it is too high?

Any advice?

[Clodfobble]

I always just put "negotiable." Once they've established through interviews that they really want you, then you can discuss how much you want.

[BigV]

With respect to salary requirements, I am flexible, and I think a fair market rate would be equitable to both sides.

Hello <name>:

<secretary name> is not at fault here. A salary history has not been included in any of our communications. I hope I can be helpful anyway.

I haven’t included a salary history because I believe each job and job holder should determine the compensation value. I will say this: I am looking for a fair offer, not a get rich offer, just as you’re seeking experienced professional performance, not careless rookie performance. As to my history, I was paid fairly by <former employer>, and I would love to entertain a fair offer from my next employer.

I hope you will find this helpful, and not coy. I am earnestly interested in hearing more from you.

Yours,

Here are a couple examples of how I handled the question. In my estimation, salary requirements (for me, ymmv) are more of a tool to weed out applicants, not include. Seriously, they know you want the most money. Seriously, they want to spend the least money. That's a given, and both sides know it. They also know how much they want to pay and you might not. For a posted public sector job, you might know. If it's published, why would they be asking anyway? Are they wondering if you'll hold them hostage for a higher number?

So, I agree with Clodfobble. Defer this conversation as long as possible, even until after a written offer has been tendered. **Then** we can talk turkey.

By the way, I got the job referenced in the second letter.

[Griff]

Originally Posted by Shawnee123

I'm considering applying for a job with the city...

Their pay scales should be a matter of public record. Google them.

[yesman065]

OMG - Google, Google, Google, search for other similar or closely related jobs and see what they are offering then go a little on the the high side with a window dipping into the "going rate" ie: going rate averages out to 41,000 - put in a range of 40 to 45. My SO just did this and starts tomorrow making almost twice what she was getting + benefits galore! She ended up getting a lot more than she thought the position was going to pay before doing her research. She was originally looking for a position in a range about 10k less than she is now getting! I can't stress enough to do your research and then go for it!

[Shawnee123]

Thanks for the advice, everyone.

I hope my outcome is similar to your SO's, yesman!

Have a great day!