Entry Level Job Offer
Hi Safety Knights,
I previously posted a question weeks ago about interviewing for EHS positions. After many interviews, I ended up with an offer for an EHS Assistant. I will be creating trainings for things such as LOTO, Confined Spaces, possibly taking over the Safety Trainings for Orientation, and executing projects to change the safety culture of the company, while working under the EHS Manager. I was wondering if the group could reflect on whether $37,000 was an acceptable salary for an entry level position. The location is 30 minutes away from home, and I previously made $40,000 for a 20 minute commute. There is a 6 month performance review where I will have a chance to get a raise. I tried to negotiate already but they said that since I have entry level skills, they are making an investment in me, which will include internal and external trainings. What do you think? Suck it up and get the experience? Or work at the local Amazon and keep applying to hopefully get more money? I haven’t finished my degree yet either, 1 year left.
Comments (11)
I would try and negotiate up to at least $50k
They aren’t budging on the $37,000.
That's almost $18 and hour (if you only work 40 hours per week). My first entry level safety job was $15, and I had 1 year left of college similar to you. That entry level job led me to getting the senior level job I have now. They pay isn't great, however it'll look good on a resume'.
If you haven't received a degree and don't have any experience, I would take the job. Once you get a degree in safety GSP, or an ASP, I would either ask for more or look elsewhere. It does sound like you will be receiving some training and some good experiences through it. Is this an internship? Many colleges require an internship to graduate. If it is an internship, then it pays well compared to most.
Construction or General Industry? There will most likely be more hours worked in construction. Its a good idea to figure out what your hourly pay will be (salary / hours worked). If you are expected to work only 40 hours, that's fine, but if you will be working 55+ hours, the hourly rate often isn't great.
Also, where are you located? Money goes a lot further in Ohio than California.
37k is criminal - pass
I would look at this like an internship (even though it is not) because they’re offering experience and training opportunities. It’s something in the field you desire while you are still in school. Your one year of experience here with a degree will be valuable to other companies if you are not getting what you want. Remember, they are offering a 6-month review which you can also use to reevaluate your needs. If salary doesn’t increase, you can always leave.
Those are my two cents.
I would take it, prove your ability, and then ask for the raise. If nothing else, it will get you more experience and make you more marketable in the future.
I would say take the job and get the experience, especially if can flex with college schedule.
Safety is a support level function and to all honestly it is hard to get that expected salary with limited experience under your belt. You need the tech. experience/interpersonal/soft skills/networking to advance your career.
You have to start at bottom to build the foundation and get that degree, since nowadays it a requirement for most safety positions. And speaking for entry level positions and not going to the argument of having a degree or not.
Now I would counter the offer depending on area of location. job availability and cost of living.
Even if you work at this low paying position for a year, you may gain the hands on experience and possibly a professional referral.
Thanks,
Nirap