[onewhippedpuppy]

Souk, thanks for the advice. I've only been out of school since May, but have been working for the company full time for over two years. I've been working as a project engineer for one year and have always received stellar reviews. Some of the certification documents that I prepared (my first try) were lauded as being "the best I've seen in a long time" and are now used as an example for training purposes.

As a new grad, I'm currently our lowest engineer grade. I only expect to be bumped up to the next position (Engineer 2). The job I'm doing typically starts at Engineer 4, but I know I have to "pay my dues", despite the fact that I have the same expectations and responsibilities as the experienced PEs. I have always approached these conversations with an emphasis on appreciating the opportunity and wishing to stay with the company, and only wanting to be paid fairly. I don't think what I'm asking for is unreasonable, and my manager has agreed that a promotion is a "no brainer". I have a good grasp on what others in the local industry make, but salary.com is something tangible that I can print out and bring to the table.

I agree with the frustration with HR. I've always been of the belief that you should be paid based on the work you do, as that establishes your worth to the company. Sadly, most companies seem content to pay as little as possible. I have no desire to be a job hopper, but will make a change if I feel I am being treated unfairly.