Hey guys. I just finished my two-year degree with a Computer Networking Associates. I finished top of my class but I’ve had little luck getting a job due to lack of professional experience. I know my shit but no one has taken a chance with me yet.
I’m currently working a temp position as a Technical Support Coordinator (aka Desktop Support Specialist) which will eventually yield a full-time position, but I recently got a job offer from a different company. It’s for a NPO that currently staffs TWO people in the entire I.S. department. They are extremely behind in technology but they want to expand and upgrade.
Their mail server, for example, is a Novell Netware server but they want to switch to something new (probably Exchange, maybe something Linux based). They have three sites, one that only supports two workstations, but they are connected together in a WAN. I don’t know how many users/workstations total they support (which I plan to ask).
I’m not sure if there are rules about discussing salary or not, but they are offering a fair amount 45k. I know someone with only helpdesk support that got hired last week somewhere else for 52k. This person is not even close to smart as I am, generally and technically, and has one year of schooling, but he has the experience that I don’t.
I feel like by accepting this job I might be settling. I know that it’s going to provide some unique opportunities such as a chance to upgrade from Netware technology to Exchange. I’ll be working on servers, routing equipment, and some other stuff waaaaaaay beyond the scope of a Desktop Tech but I’ll be making far less money… I wouldn’t consistently be doing advance stuff, most of my daily work would be Desktop Support but there will be that advance stuff from time-to-time.
I have a few questions.
Is this job a potential career killer because of its ancient technology?
Would it be poor decision to accept the job and continue searching for something more corporate-like and higher salary?
Should I ask for a higher salary? If so how much more?
Would it be better to stay with my temp position and keep my fingers crossed for an early opening on a fulltime position?
Is there anything else you want to comment on? Please do!!!
Thanks all.
– sega
