So, I am in a weird situation. I am currently employed, however the current project I am working on is coming to an end. The current company is promising me a completely different position, however the timeline keeps on getting pushed into the future. I have heard twice that I would transition into a new position, however it seems like it never happens... so I have been looking for other employment to see if there are any other opportunities for me.
I ended up going through a referral and nailed an interview for a technical support position. The hiring manager called me and told me up front what that the compensation would be $36,000. That is exactly a 10% decrease compared to the salary I have now. The position seems interesting and it is in the field I would like to stay in, however the salary cut scares me a lot. Also I may have an opportunity to make more at the company I am at now -- if it ever pans out.
I ended up going to the first interview and asked if the salary was negotiable. The hiring manager did not say specifically no, but my interpretation of his answer was no. They then invited me to a second interview today. I do not know if I should even consider the second interview or politely decline. I feel terrible because I had two people in the company refer me and I really like the organization as it is much larger and there seems to be more opportunity for advancement.
Also I would like to note that the hiring manager is completely aware that I would be taking a 10% salary cut