u/Low_Appointment_9807

Upon starting a GS12 job coming from NAF, I learned that a colleague who started on same day, doing the same role was placed at a higher step with less experience and no specialized certification. I couldn’t negotiate due to being a federal employee so was discouraged when I learned this. Seems like my only option now is to hope for a quality step increase in the future? Newer to the fed government but surprised with pay differences to this degree. Is this common? Curious of any tips or considerations from others who may be more familiar with OPM.