How can I get paid above band minimum- CS recruitment

[Cheshunt]

I am thinking of applying to a CS role but am only interested if I was to get paid towards the top of the advertised band. If I was lower it wouldn’t be enough to compensate me for additional travel /childcare I’d need to the new role. I have heard though that CS like to recruit at band minimum. Is it even worth the effort of applying as I only want the role of at the top of pay scale? Thanks for any advice!

No it isn't. If you currebntly earned more than the bottom of the band, they might consdier it. If you just want more money, they won't. Your travel / childcare are not relevant.

Thanks for replying. I will probably hold out till a higher band role is advertised then. Though I don’t really see why they advertise a range if hardly anyone above minimum. My current role is just above the advertised minimum but with 100% remote. New role would want me in office so would increase my costs

Assuming this isn't for the devolved nations? And assuming you are aware there isn't salary progression? (You stay where you are put, barring cost of living increase). There is extremely limited scope in going in at a higher part of the scale, it's not impossible, I have heard of it happening (particularly from external candidates) and it usually needs a good business case (which would be around your skillset and how in demand it is, as opposed to your personal circumstances). BUT happens pretty infrequently, I've never managed it (oh I've tried, and I'm in a niche profession) no one I've directly worked with has managed it, but I do hear stories that someone in X department on X project managed it!

You won't know if you don't try, but I'd have your expectations managed.

There's a salary scale because people are all over it for various reasons (usually historic) and the band needs to be defined, but there is no salary progression, yes it's hugely misleading and confusing if you're not familiar with the CS. It's different in the devolved nations I believe.

No not devolved nations. I know about lack of pay progression. Role is similar to the one I am in (non CS) but after expenses (travel, childcare) I would have less at the end of the month

Don't forget to consider pension, CS pension is pretty generous (although I appreciate that's less of a consideration when in the thick of childcare!) also be warned we have a CS 60% office attendance drive underway.

Currently work for public sector (but not core CS) so pension already good. Yeah the 60% attendance was what I didn’t like! Would mean breakfast club for my kids plus travel cost

Yeah but CS is likely much better, my LGPS was 14% employer contribution and CS is 27% (equivalent, ish, doesn't quite work out like that but helpful for comparison).

Is it a central department? Some ALBs will apply the rules much more loosely! Or if it is an organisation with limited estate.

I always think it's worth applying and negotiate when you have an offer. It'll never be a waste of time as CS recruitment is notoriously difficult to navigate so the more practice the better!

The FDA published a report on pay in the Civil Service last week. Most of us are on or just above the bottom of the pay scale since the end of pay progression. I have once managed to make the case for someone to start above the bottom of the scale to match her existing pay - but still not much above the minimum. The cost of commuting and childcare is irrelevant although there may be some flexibility on hybrid working.

they would only offer the lower pay band would be up to you after offer stage to then say you would like the higher end and then they will have to put forward a business case on your salary request to be approved. If you don't ask you wont get. Good luck in your application process.