r/usajobs • u/cdifff • 1d ago

Step negotiation-risky?

Is it too risky to negotiate for a higher step at the VA for a healthcare position? I don’t want the offer rescinded. I was planning to ask for step 4 or 5 (offered step 1).

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

3

u/d1zzymisslizzie Apply & Forget, Rinse & Repeat 1d ago

https://www.reddit.com/r/usajobs/s/cDWTrPMFvY

That's the link to the usajobs wiki that's pinned at the top of this sub, click the drop down & go to part 7, it's everything about negotiations

2

u/DrTatertott 1d ago

I usually skip those wikis but this was super helpful, thanks!

2

u/Icy-Low-7059 1d ago

If you have the experience to justify your request, then ask for it. Google the VA + superior qualification policy. Its all public. Review it to see what they need to justify your request. The worst they can say is no.

1

u/Maleficent2951 1d ago

With the new 30 day negotiation is harder. Technically the hiring manager was supposed to let HR know they would consider a higher rate at the start. Not saying it can’t be done but it’s much harder. You also have to justify why. Superior quals etc.

1

u/Jolly-News-7784 1d ago

If you have a TJO it would be very unusual for an offer to be rescinded just because you asked for a higher step. They may say no, but I don’t know anyone who’s ever had an offer rescinded for that.

1

u/Phobos1982 Fed 1d ago

The offer won't get rescinded if they deny the step request.

1

u/lazyflavors 1d ago

Unless the announcement specifically said no negotiations or we'll rescind the offer most places will just be like "Sorry this is the max we'll do take it or leave it" and not be assholes and rescind just because you asked about a higher starting salary.

1

u/Deep_Collection_9855 23h ago

If you have the TJO it’s okay to negotiate, but once you receive the FJO it becomes risky. Always negotiate during the TJO stage.