[EEKappa]

Great advice so far!

I'd like to echo that sometimes employers can't make a better offer, or even offer better benefits because they try very hard to maintain pay parity. There is nothing more detrimental to existing, loyal, employees and their morale than to give the "new kid on the block" with no experience a better package than they got when they started.

In my experienc, no matter how well-credentialed candidates are, if they are new to our industry they won't begin reach their full potential until we've had a good four months to train them.

Since this is a new field for you, let the potential employer know that you are willing to pay your dues, which might mean a lower salary level than you are accustomed to. What you might be able to negotiate is a review after six months to determine your progress and evaluate your value to the company.

If you've made the commitment to learn as much as possible and contribute to the organization, after six months they won't want to lose you! And then not only will you be worth the higher salary, they'll be justified in paying it.