Many people don't know this, but YES—you can negotiate your federal salary and get a higher step before getting hired. But you may be able to negotiate a salary above the low end of the range.Start with your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). A short letter that quickly makes its point will show respect for the hiring manager's time and ensure effective communication. Negotiating a salary is one of the hardest things many military members face when leaving active duty to start a civilian career. What you'll need to do is ask for salary negotion when you receive your tentative offer and you will be basing that on superior qualifications. The RIGHT WAY to negotiate your post-military salary in 2021! It is possible to negotiate a higher federal salary, provided you have some basic information about government pay scales. Thank you for the offer! Once negotiations are completed, be sure to confirm that everything discussed is in your final offer letter.