Back to Green Head's questions.

I got into the private pond consulting field in a roundabout way. I worked for a state agency that did that kind of stuff for the general public. Now I work for an agency that does not and we are allowed to "freelance" on the side. It's decent money, but I'd hate to have to make a living on what I make now. If I could do it full time, maybe my thoughts would change.

One thing you might consider is accepting a job with a private pond consultant and learning the ropes. I wouldn't advocate doing that and then opening up a competing business in the same town, though, that's not right in my way of thinking.

One item for thought. Everyone I know that is successful in the public or private sector started WAY down the totem pole. We're talking summer jobs for minimum wage and no benefits. You've got to pay your dues in this field, just like any other.

I think Greg is spot-on with his salary given what I know about state agencies. A bachelor's degree will get you a technician job somewhere, but it will take a lot of searching, applying, and interviewing, none of which is cheap. When you do get hired, $23k plus good benefits would be about what you would expect at first, and a LONG time before you would see the other side of $30k.

It depends on how desperate you are for a job as to what advice I'd have about accepting a position.

If you want to send me an email regarding the terms of your offer, I'd be happy to give you my opinion on it for what it's worth. I'd be happy to answer any other questions as well.