Valueness engineer?

Hi,
I graduated with a Master Degree in a accreditted university. I just got out and worked for almost a year now in a MEP consulting firm. I found that my salary and compensation is less than the average in my area. Although I just passed my EIT/FE, do you think that it's a good idea to ask for a salary raise (is it possible for EIT, seemed like no big deal, not PE)? What is the best way that I can ask for more salary. I have been working very hard, but the company is very stingy.
Please advise.
Thanks.

 

[TD2K]

You basically need to show your company that it's worthwhile to increase your pay to the level you think. That means being able to show them what is 'typical' pay in your area, your skills and your contributions/abilities to do work for the company.

Ultimately, you may need to look for another company. Your chances of negotiating a significant pay increase is better, IMO, when you are coming into a job than with a company that has been paying you at this level for a while.

 

[svanels]

Like TDK said you have to proof your value to the company. The average time for both sides two know each other is 2 years. If you are an experienced engineer you have more weight. Have you already found out what the other engineers are getting in this company? This will be crucial to know if you are going to stay or leave. Steven van Els
SAvanEls@cq-link.sr

 

[ksuengrng]

Poor Engineer:

I also work for an MEP firm, after spending eight years in the pressure vessel and tank field, a field, I might add, that I still really enjoy. Anyway, you might also want to keep in mind that all of the MEP centers get funding from the governemt; NIST to be exact. Then depending on where you are employed, the State may also provide some funding into this "pool of money". You, the project engineers, are responsible for the remaining monies. (This is one of several models, and may not be exactly like the MEP you work for). I totally agree with TD2K and svanels, you need to establish some consistency and credibility and show that you can do excellent work. Just because you have the EIT or PE, doesn't "give" you more money. Many employers like to see, and reward, hard work, self starting abilities, continued learning, great character, and such. It is difficult, though possible, for an MEP center to give raises mid year, since the money for the FY your in has already been established.

It also needs to be noted that President Bush has recommended cutting the budget drastically for the MEP programs. A move we feel is targeted at eliminating this program. However, moves have been taken to try and not let this happen. All MEP centers were supposed to have been involved in this exercise last week.

The MEP area is a great field to work in, at least where I am.

Ksuengrng