Ok, longish story:

I work for a local Government and make about $45K - well above the median here but also way below my value in the private sector.

I don't hate my job, I just hate not making enough to really get ahead. I mean I pay my bills and all, but still...

Now you all know I'm going to do Guard training in a few months.

Now the fun part - I just got off the phone with a recruiter for a Federal contractor. He's got a job in Kansas City for $75-85K, but I'd have to start right away. Which I can't do, because I'm leaving in April for five months.

Hopefully a similar position will be available when I get back.

Sometimes timing is everything.

Doesn't that figure. Well, let them know you're grateful for the opportunity, let him know of your situation, and he'll remember you.

O43

Just remember to be very careful about going on a Government Contract. The Gov is a very fickle customer with a less than reliable track record. My observation is that a lot of companies offer rather high salaries because they (and potential employees) know that these contract are often unstable.

Find out how long the company has had this contract and when is it due to be recompeted. At the tail end of a contract a lot of the long term experienced employees will be bailing out and companies are in a panic mode because they may not have enough people to finish the work and be available for the recompete process.