Skip to main content
2 answers
2
Asked 384 views

how do i make sure to get a good enough pay ?

homeland security

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

2

2 answers


1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Kim’s Answer

Star,

Many public sector jobs such as law enforcement and homeland security, have pay scales they follow. Some agencies have latitude for merit raises, or starting someone at a higher level if they bring a certain expertise to the team, but, unfortunately, most of the salaries are set by the pay scale.

So, you want to see if you can obtain the pay scales of the entities you are interested in applying to. Keep in mind that "pay" also includes such things as "retirement match" (how much they contribute towards your retirement), holiday pay, longevity pay, degree pay, shift differential, etc. Also keep in mind commute time. You don't want to have to drive too far for a salary that is only slightly higher -it's not worth it!

Now, it never hurts to ask! I've seen articles that talk about how men are paid more than women in many roles because we don't advocate for ourselves. I'm retired, and just now learning how to do that when dealing with home remodeling projects, etc! It's not really all that difficult, just seems a little awkward at first!

good luck!
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Stefanie’s Answer

Hi-- thanks for your question! It looks like you are interested in homeland security. In terms of pay, as a general rule of thumb, government jobs are not always the highest paying jobs-- although they do have many great benefits that make those jobs desirable (and, of course, if it's your passion, there is great benefit to having a job you love...). Generally speaking, you will probably earn a higher salary and have bonuses available if you work in a corporate job. There are many different security jobs to explore in the corporate world, including physical security, fraud investigating, cyber security (a growing field) and others. Fields that involve security and technology are certainly becoming more necessary and important, so having training and a degree in one of those fields would probably make you very marketable.

I hope that helps! Good luck!
0