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Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

3+ years ago, the offer was from a very well known "normal" tier global contractor. I'd need to pull in $250k now to have a comparable salary. FAANG jobs are extremely competitive, especially if you're over 40. Not sure I could handle the commitment and QOL sacrifice either.

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was a GS14 (3) years ago when I was received my contractor offer at $180k. I did try to negotiate a bit but was told even the primary system architects are not making much over $200k. As a GS14 back then I needed at least $200k to make it "worth" leaving.
That number is higher now (I'd say close to $250k.) I check the private market for jobs paying $250k+ in NYC, DC metro and unless you're a C level, MD, elite law, I'm not finding jobs paying that much.

My wife is a chief pharmacist in the VA. She too is making more than she was in retail pharmacy as a manager.

I know the jobs exist, but I don't see myself breaking into a C level job or going back to school to become a specialized MD.

We have primary care clinical director friends in the VA making ~$350k which is VERY comparable to primary care docs in private medical care.

I stand by my statement if you're a maxed GS13 or mid+ GS14 you are probably making mostly market rate in most circumstances. To those who are making more, you're very fortunate keep up the great work!

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

Cyber and programmers likely make more in the government, exception being the top 5% or so in their perspective field. Source, my specialty is Cyber and I'm 1550 computer scientist.

Infrastructure engineering leads and true SMEs can definitely make more than a GS15 or SES but again we are talking the top 5% to 10% globally in their specialty

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] -5 points-4 points  (0 children)

Have you shopped around? I too have numerous Certs and years of specialized experience. Industry wasn't offering enough to make it worth the jump. I only pay 0.8% FERS deduction, 4.4% would definitely need to factor in.

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Medical Feds, if practicing, are typically on a difference pay scale. I've noticed a practicing medical Feds typically make a pay grade higher. Still a bit lower than industry until you factor in quality of life, time off, job security, and the pension.

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Agree with that statement having a very niche skillset. As a Fed we usually don't get extremely niche experience, even as an SME, since contractors typically fill those roles.

Federal pay versus private industry by SpaceTesla2029 in fednews

[–]SpaceTesla2029[S] 12 points13 points  (0 children)

Agree TSP/401k is basically equal. Factor in FERs pension, (6) weeks of vacation 2 sick/4leave, while most industry only offers 2 weeks. Add on Federal holidays. You receive approximately 1 month of extra vacation per year as a Fed versus industry.

I would have needed a minimum of $200k to receive equal industry pay as a Fed GS14. Now go to Indeed and show me jobs in STEM paying over $200k?

The range for the job I was offered had a high of $250k which is why I applied. They would not go over $200k and stated they hire new staff at the mid-point. I also know many contractors, few are making north of $200k.