Hey everyone! I just finished my interviews for a Linux Administration position at Booz Allen. I've got over 2 years of experience working with RHEL and I've earned my RHCSA and Security+ certifications. Plus, I've got an active secret clearance, which I hear is a plus for this role.
I'm hoping to get some advice on what a reasonable salary expectation would be. Would asking for between $110,000 and $115,000 be fair considering my background? I'd really love to hear your thoughts!
4 Answers
It really depends on where you're located. If you're on the east or west coast, that salary might be more reasonable. But in other areas, it could seem a bit high. With just 2 years of experience, you're still considered entry-level in many tech circles, and generally, it's mostly developers and data scientists who land six-figure salaries right away.
Also, when recruiters ask about your salary expectations, I usually suggest just saying you're considering multiple offers. It tends to lead to better offers since they often come back with higher numbers than you might have guessed!
Do you have 2 years of overall work experience or specifically just 2 years with RHEL? Also, where exactly is the role located? Is it a cleared position? More context could help with advice!
I have two years of experience specifically with Linux and Red Hat.
As someone who's in the DMV working for the federal government, I think you're still at a "junior" level with 2 years of RHEL experience. So, getting to six figures from a contracting firm might be tough, but not impossible. For reference, in the federal pay scale, you'd likely be around GS 11 or 12, working your way up to 13 or 14 eventually. If you had more years on your resume, $100,000 to $120,000 might feel more realistic.
I appreciate the insight! Just to clarify, I'm going in as a contractor.
That range sounds reasonable across the U.S. If you can, try to let them bring up the salary first. If not, using a broader salary range like $110,000-$130,000 might work in your favor. Good luck!
Thanks for the tip! I’ll definitely let them talk first, but if needed, I’ll use a wider range.
Thanks for sharing that! I live in the DMV area where the cost of living is pretty high, so that's why I was aiming for six figures.