Based on the assumption that you're currently employed, I'd wait to see what sort of offer is made first.  Ordinarily, switching jobs - even within the same organization - makes the most sense when you can increase your earnings by at least 10% to 15%.  If you're offered a salary that falls within that range, I'd take the job.  Forget about any external salary data regarding the range for jobs like this one.  You're a unique individual with a unique skill set and other unique qualifications that have to be lined up with the particular requirements of this particular job with this particular employer!  They know what you're earning now, so it would make sense that they'll offer you a higher salary to make the switch.  If you're offered less than 10%, I'd politely ask if the salary offer is negotiable and see what they say.  If it's not, I'd still be inclined to take the job to take the job because opportunities for career advancement don't come along all that often and if you decline this one, another probably won't come along for a long, long time.  On the other hand, if the offer is negotiable, I'd say I was anticipating a salary in the $X to $Y range, letting X represent at least 10% more than you're earning now and letting $Y represent at least 15% more than you're earning now.  If you think you can justify a higher range, like 15% to 20% more, based on your record of past job performance, go for it!  Once you have the salary issue settled and any other questions answered, then I'd ask if your previous service with the company can be reinstated, but I wouldn't make a fuss about it if it can't.  (If I misunderstood your situation, please let me know and I'll start over.)

Paul W. Barada

The Negotiation Expert