Private Multinational Company or Federal/State Jobs

jetdynamics

In terms of career growth which of the 2 you think would give you a better edge in career and salary wise?

I would like to have a feedback from those who work on the Federal level. Since I am eyeing to move to those kind of job, Currently I am working for a Multinational Company but since everything is set up regionalize its so hard to move up , Everything is restricted careerwise how would you learn system admin task w/out giving you a chance to do those task.

I don't know if thats the same issue on the Federal Level jobs.

veritas_libertas

Where in South Carolina are you?

Our company is the same way. If I want to move up I will eventually have to leave.

jetdynamics

I am in Charleston

I've been working as Desktop Support for 4 years but never had a chance to do a higher level task because of company setup for doing regionalize support.

joshmadakor

jetdynamics wrote: »

In terms of career growth which of the 2 you think would give you a better edge in career and salary wise?

I would like to have a feedback from those who work on the Federal level. Since I am eyeing to move to those kind of job, Currently I am working for a Multinational Company but since everything is set up regionalize its so hard to move up , Everything is restricted careerwise how would you learn system admin task w/out giving you a chance to do those task.

I don't know if thats the same issue on the Federal Level jobs.

(State Employee Here)

I wish more people had replied to this thread, as I want to hear more about federal work. I work IT for the State of Washington as an IT Specialist III (ITS-III: http://www.dop.wa.gov/JobClasses/479K.doc). I can tell you, its not really that easy to move up after your pay caps for your given position. My job is really stable, and the salary schedule for my position caps out at just over 64k/yr.

As far as job roles, everyone pretty much sticks to their own job description. What you do probably won't change unless the technology you're responsible for changes. It's possible, when working state, that you may be scolded for taking on other people's roles. Reason being, if you must perform work BEYOND your position description regularly, you MAY be eligible for a reclassification.

An example of this would be if I was suddenly responsible for systems that needed 24-hour availability, I may (through a long and troublesome process driven by myself, as the employee) move from an ITS-III to an ITS-IV. Apparently, the state typically doesn't like that.

SteveLord

I work for Iowa. I was originally an IT Specialist 2 and successfully reclassed to a 3 back in April (took 2 months of waiting after paperwork). I am fortunate to have a position that is the jack-of-all-trades type. I am not focused on doing 1 thing. I am regularly challenged and at the same time, can spend free time playing/researching if I choose. My staff consists of about 40.

I've also seen tons of opportunities for moving up to a 4 or 5, but they are typically positions that requiring SQL nerds or website application stuff. A few with regards to server stuff as well.

The healthcare, retirement and time off benefits can't be beat. And even though there is an IT consolidation push going on + the fact we just got a red governor to replace the blue one...I'm not worried one bit. A lot of interesting things coming down the pipe for 2011, but I'm looking forward to it.

erpadmin

SteveLord wrote: »

I work for Iowa. I was originally an IT Specialist 2 and successfully reclassed to a 3 back in April (took 2 months of waiting after paperwork). I am fortunate to have a position that is the jack-of-all-trades type. I am not focused on doing 1 thing. I am regularly challenged and at the same time, can spend free time playing/researching if I choose. My staff consists of about 40.

I've also seen tons of opportunities for moving up to a 4 or 5, but they are typically positions that requiring SQL nerds or website application stuff. A few with regards to server stuff as well.

The healthcare, retirement and time off benefits can't be beat. And even though there is an IT consolidation push going on + the fact we just got a red governor to replace the blue one...I'm not worried one bit. A lot of interesting things coming down the pipe for 2011, but I'm looking forward to it.

I work for NJ myself, and we're in a similar situation (red gov replacing blue one...though NJ is typically a blue state). My title has a 1 at the end and 2s, 3s, 4s, are lower titles. Good thing is if a 2 gets promoted to a 1, I can bump that guy if the state ever gets cute with layoffs (we have "bumping rights" here, which this guy wants to change as well as abolish civil service so that folks can easily hire the son, nephew, girlfriend/boyfriend's kid, etc).

Have 13+ years in the system and could "retire" at anytime, though can't collect that until 60. Trying to work until I'm 55 so that I can move to a low tax state (only got 22 more years.... ), but I'll have full retirement medical, about 60-70% of whatever my highest salary was, but that will be supplmented by my 457(b). Of course, nothing is written in stone.

I started out in a title similar to yours but I became a "SQL nerd" that deals with "website application stuff...and servers." ERPs are definitely where the money is, and for me to have stayed a desktop guy in perpetuity would have been a waste. ERPs are constantly changing and the skillset gets to change with it. It may behoove you (or others) to look into something like SQL (whether it's Oracle or SQL Server), as DBAs are in serious demand right now (public and private). Being a jack-of-all-trades kinda guy is fun for the first few years of an IT career...then it gets old and tiring quick. Just something you may want to consider.

SteveLord

I lived in Jersey City for 5 years. If you ever want a change of scenery and buy a nice house that doesn't have to cost you half a mil, let me know. All your types over here are IT5s. I am still getting my feet wet to see where I want to specialize in. We are getting a new database in January that is heavy on SQL. Many other agencies have plans to adopt it as well. We shall see.

I will say coworkers here being A LOT less confrontational compared to Jersey took some getting use to.

erpadmin

SteveLord wrote: »

I lived in Jersey City for 5 years. If you ever want a change of scenery and buy a nice house that doesn't have to cost you half a mil, let me know. All your types over here are IT5s. I am still getting my feet wet to see where I want to specialize in. We are getting a new database in January that is heavy on SQL. Many other agencies have plans to adopt it as well. We shall see.

I will say coworkers here being A LOT less confrontational compared to Jersey took some getting use to.

I know what you mean...we do tend to be a bit on the confrontational side...especially when it can be proven that our network for whatever reason is bogged down somewhere. Then folks get to act like children. That is another story in and of itself...

I live in one of the last places of NJ where property taxes don't even touch Hudson/Essex/Bergen counties (though I suspect that will change within the next few years as towns in Middlesex county might be wising up thanks to fatboy Christie). I'm dying to get of NJ, but IA isn't exactly on my short list (I hate snow... ) .

I did have a gander of what a IT-5 makes in IA, and I do like that range, though I'm not familiar with Boone or Polk counties. Even if I did a lateral move, the COL would more than make up for it. In all honesty though, I'm trying to shoot for an IT management position (either in-state, out-of-state or even private sector). I like working in higher education, as the level of "confrontation" can be managed 'correctly' and without having to resort to behavior one would have from being born and raised in a urban setting...lmao!

SteveLord

erpadmin wrote: »

I know what you mean...we do tend to be a bit on the confrontational side...especially when it can be proven that our network for whatever reason is bogged down somewhere. Then folks get to act like children. That is another story in and of itself...

I live in one of the last places of NJ where property taxes don't even touch Hudson/Essex/Bergen counties (though I suspect that will change within the next few years as towns in Middlesex county might be wising up thanks to fatboy Christie). I'm dying to get of NJ, but IA isn't exactly on my short list (I hate snow... ) .

I did have a gander of what a IT-5 makes in IA, and I do like that range, though I'm not familiar with Boone or Polk counties. Even if I did a lateral move, the COL would more than make up for it. In all honesty though, I'm trying to shoot for an IT management position (either in-state, out-of-state or even private sector). I like working in higher education, as the level of "confrontation" can be managed 'correctly' and without having to resort to behavior one would have from being born and raised in a urban setting...lmao!

We also have the IT ADMINs (1-4) which are the managers/directors. Openings for those pretty much only open when someone retires. While I hate the winter, I hate paying a lot more for everything and having to tip everyone just because they smiled at me. Could have never afforded a house there, but I managed to afford a 4 bedroom here, with 4 kids and 2 car payments still. My wife is an RN and Iowa is at the bottom for nurse pay. But we are happier as a family here.

I do miss paying $1.75 for some real pizzaria pizza though. And the wife misses Dunkin Donuts.

eansdad

Well in NJ working civil service means having a target on your back (Thank you Gov. Christie). We enjoy low cost health care, paid days off (I started with 2, paid holidays, mostly stable jobs (almost impossible to be fired unless you’re just that bad and bumping rights) and a pension. On the other side we have to deal with corrupt administrations (might not be true elsewhere but it is here), low pay compared to private sector, Unions (can be just as harmful as they can be good), poor job growth (someone has to die/retire before advancement) and lack of innovation (you will get "maintain the status quo" drilled into your soul).

With that I have worked for some very large companies some on government contracts and I currently work for a large school district in NJ which is a municipal job. Although some of the opportunities have been great at my current job it is nothing like working in private sector. I make $20k less then I would be in private sector and have people (voters) complaining that we get to much. The work load/stress level is ridiculous (told to get a week long project done in 2 days with out OT).

Like I said it would vary on the job/employer but the good thing about IT is we can also move to another job. We will always be in demand whether it be with a consulting/staffing company or in house IT we will always have a way out.

Personally I would go the government route (bad reason aside). If it is a good situation then your golden for life. If it is bad just get your vestment and get out. In NJ 10 years qualifies you for a partial pension at 60. It might only be $10k but that is more then what you had. Myself I want to finish out my 10 and leave as this place is a nightmare.

Good Luck in all you do...

erpadmin

eansdad wrote: »

Personally I would go the government route (bad reason aside). If it is a good situation then your golden for life. If it is bad just get your vestment and get out. In NJ 10 years qualifies you for a partial pension at 60. It might only be $10k but that is more then what you had. Myself I want to finish out my 10 and leave as this place is a nightmare.

Good Luck in all you do...

I want to finish my 25 so I can get the medical...only 12 more years to go.... but as I said earlier, nothing is written in stone.

eansdad

erpadmin wrote: »

I want to finish my 25 so I can get the medical...only 12 more years to go.... but as I said earlier, nothing is written in stone.

Expecially with Christie, if he has anything to say we would be endentured servants being thankful for the chance to work for NJ. Funny how he is a retired federal employee though that touts responsibility and accountability. When he runs for president I hope people see through his bull. What can you expect from a 1st term gov. who helps campain in Cal. and other states. More power to you if you can stay/survive 12 years here...lol.

erpadmin

eansdad wrote: »

Expecially with Christie, if he has anything to say we would be endentured servants being thankful for the chance to work for NJ. Funny how he is a retired federal employee though that touts responsibility and accountability. When he runs for president I hope people see through his bull. What can you expect from a 1st term gov. who helps campain in Cal. and other states. More power to you if you can stay/survive 12 years here...lol.

That's all the more reason why I'm resisting taking out any pension loans...tomorrow is just not promised in NJ anymore. Plus, who knows what our Can't Wait to Acquiesce contract is going to look like. I will be fine with no COLA increases for a couple of years and NO furloughs. We simply don't know how it's gonna pan out...he tried to get cute with us not having a day off the day after Thanksgiving. The union is such a friggin joke....I have half a mind to write to them and say I won't pay neither the dues nor the agency fee. It's all a bunch of crap.

Christie thinks his tough talking is going to help him get a second term. He doesn't realize that the only reason he won this election was because of low turnout. When those teachers, cops, firemen, other public workers rally behind the guy we can to kick fat boy out for the next election, he'll be sucking down hoagies, subs, or what-have-you outside of Trenton. LOL.

SteveLord

erpadmin wrote: »

That's all the more reason why I'm resisting taking out any pension loans...tomorrow is just not promised in NJ anymore. Plus, who knows what our Can't Wait to Acquiesce contract is going to look like. I will be fine with no COLA increases for a couple of years and NO furloughs. We simply don't know how it's gonna pan out...he tried to get cute with us not having a day off the day after Thanksgiving. The union is such a friggin joke....I have half a mind to write to them and say I won't pay neither the dues nor the agency fee. It's all a bunch of crap.

Christie thinks his tough talking is going to help him get a second term. He doesn't realize that the only reason he won this election was because of low turnout. When those teachers, cops, firemen, other public workers rally behind the guy we can to kick fat boy out for the next election, he'll be sucking down hoagies, subs, or what-have-you outside of Trenton. LOL.

We just finished with our contracts. 2% July, 1% Jan 2012. Hopefully no more furloughs. (We had to take 5 last year.) Did no good for my agency since we're self funded. Retirement here requires you to meet rule of 88. Age + years of service must equal 88. Do you guys pay into healthcare? Currently we dont, even for family coverage.

And come on, anyone could have become governor of NJ given the mistake that was Corzine.

erpadmin

SteveLord wrote: »

We just finished with our contracts. 2% July, 1% Jan 2012. Hopefully no more furloughs. (We had to take 5 last year.) Did no good for my agency since we're self funded,

And come on, anyone could have become governor of NJ given the mistake that was Corzine.

I disliked both...had a feeling Christie would win, but I voted for Daggett. One of the few times I invoked the "protest vote." We had 7 days, ourselves...would have been 10 but we're in higher education and CWA got the state to shave off those three days.

Those furloughs were nasty but thankfully I always had money in my pocket...wasn't always like that, but thankfully I learned my financials earlier than when the furloughs came.......

eansdad

NJ civil service workers pay 1.5% of their pay for health care. Not complaining since I've had to pay it all before but then again it was better coverage then I have now. I don't have furlow days as I work for a school district. I did see that they are trying to cut summer hours to mon-thurs but add time to get to 40. Big mistake for IT as most of our overtime comes in the form of summer projects.

erpadmin

eansdad wrote: »

NJ civil service workers pay 1.5% of their pay for health care. Not complaining since I've had to pay it all before but then again it was better coverage then I have now. I don't have furlow days as I work for a school district. I did see that they are trying to cut summer hours to mon-thurs but add time to get to 40. Big mistake for IT as most of our overtime comes in the form of summer projects.

Oh ED, take that!!! That's what we do during the summer...we get Fridays off but more hours during the Mon-Thurs....the Fridays off (during the summer) was what sold me the job I got now. I love it...yeah I'm still subject to being on call, but they'll give me a day or something for some other time. Plus if you have to get OT or something for going in on Friday (I don't get OT...I'm considered a "no-limit" employee), that's even a better deal for you. The only thing that sucks about it (which isn't a problem for me) is taking vacation...each day off you want is considered a day and a quarter off, unless the Fourth of July falls on a Friday. Then that week is considered "regular" time, which is when I shoot to take vacation. Otherwise, I'll take vacation before and/or after the summer months...the four-day week is a pretty sweet deal anyway.

BTW, yeah we pay the 1.5% for medical....at first it sucked, but hey, compared to paying whatever in the private sector, it's not exactly terrible.

powerfool

Unless you plan on doing 20+ years working in the government (and having all of it be either state or all federal), I wouldn't think you would really get much benefit unless you wanted to get some experience and then transition to one of the better federal contracting firms. TSP isn't a very good program for investing your own funds. The insurance is decent. But unless you get that pension, what's the use? From my perspective, I don't want a pension, but that is an independent choice.

From the other side, you will find out if you like the work or not. I know that I wouldn't, but that is based on me, not you.

SteveLord

powerfool wrote: »

Unless you plan on doing 20+ years working in the government (and having all of it be either state or all federal), I wouldn't think you would really get much benefit unless you wanted to get some experience and then transition to one of the better federal contracting firms. TSP isn't a very good program for investing your own funds. The insurance is decent. But unless you get that pension, what's the use? From my perspective, I don't want a pension, but that is an independent choice.

From the other side, you will find out if you like the work or not. I know that I wouldn't, but that is based on me, not you.

Not paying $400+ a month for family health insurance adds up. And so do the sick/vacation days. The flexibility I have with my office in regards to family matters is not easily found either. (When you have 4 kids age 6 and under, stuff happens.) They take care of me and I go out of my way to take care of them. Entry-mid level IT jobs here actually seem to pay more than the private sector. I've seen some degree/cert demanding positions only wanting to pay $12/hr.

A lot of the IT guys here have been in for a while. A few of the most senior make more than the governor.

erpadmin

SteveLord wrote: »

Not paying $400+ a month for family health insurance adds up. And so do the sick/vacation days. The flexibility I have with my office in regards to family matters is not easily found either. (When you have 4 kids age 6 and under, stuff happens.) They take care of me and I go out of my way to take care of them. Entry-mid level IT jobs here actually seem to pay more than the private sector. I've seen some degree/cert demanding positions only wanting to pay $12/hr.

A lot of the IT guys here have been in for a while. A few of the most senior make more than the governor.

Yes and no.

Private sector workers are still subject to 10%-15% bonuses and other perks like telecommuting. Yes, some public IT workers get that, but it's more prevalent in the private sector.

It's always funny that when the economy sucks, the public worker gets crapped on for having a job...but when the economy is booming like the good ol' 90s, private sector is where it's at. However, the benefits and pensions make up for that...

Yes the case can be made that salaries in the private sector has been getting slashed, but really, who's fault is that?

powerfool

SteveLord wrote: »

Not paying $400+ a month for family health insurance adds up. And so do the sick/vacation days. The flexibility I have with my office in regards to family matters is not easily found either. (When you have 4 kids age 6 and under, stuff happens.) They take care of me and I go out of my way to take care of them. Entry-mid level IT jobs here actually seem to pay more than the private sector. I've seen some degree/cert demanding positions only wanting to pay $12/hr.

A lot of the IT guys here have been in for a while. A few of the most senior make more than the governor.

It is all relative to what opportunities you have available. I work as a consultant through one of the larger federal contractors. I definitely would not take a job from the government if it were offered to me if it were a decision between keeping my current job or moving to the government.

A lot of people that work in government positions say that the benefits are great, and I wouldn't disagree, but comparable benefits are definitely out there in the private sector... I have worked three jobs where my benefits were in the same ballpark or better, all private sector.

I cannot stay in one place for a horribly long period of time. The longest I have stay in one location with one company has been three years; not all my choice, but mostly... so this gig works out for me because I can pick up a small project here and there and then move on to something more long term.

It just depends on you, though. Insurance is definitely important with a family, I have a decent-sized family myself. However, don't miss the forest for the trees. Either way, you pay for insurance, either directly with deductions and copays, or as compensation you do not receive because your employer covers some portion of the premiums. The other thing to consider is things that are based on percentages. Currently, my employer contributes 10% of my pay without me contributing a dime to my 401k; if I have to cover some of the premiums, that is fine, because I would rather have it as additional salary since it increases that 10%.