Contract Negotiations & Trust Issues
I am amidst a primary contract change on a Federal IT contract. The new primary (Company A) has decided to retain my subcontractor (Company B), and also retain my role and myself as well. Company B has begun the onboarding process for the new contract and they have provided me with a raise in pay, a standard 3%.
I have been on this contract with company B for 4.5 years, and have only received one increase in pay, which came with a promotion that included much more responsibility. I have not asked for much nor have I demanded anything, but I have done my research and I have come up with the following data.
The national average for my labor category is ≈$96k/yr.
The local average for the my labor category is ≈$93k/yr.
My offer from Company B for this new contract is ≈$84k/yr
My response to $84K is ≈$105k/yr (not expected, but used to get closer to the average salary for my area)
I have sent a formal email to my recruiter with a polite response to the offer, justifying my position and no demands. Providing Bureau of Labor Statistics, my years/level of experience, credentials, and consistent praise from the customer. Company B has had about a week to review this info. They have acknowledged my response, and have yet to provide a rebuttal.
I have about 30 days before the contract is up and we start the new contract under Company A. Company B has started the onboarding paperwork which basically starts the hiring process all over, as if I were new. While filling out the paperwork, I was met with the contract agreement for $84k, and I am unable to proceed with the rest of the paperwork (the system just wont allow for it), which is extensive due to background checks etc. I brought this to the attention of Company B and they responded with a phone call stating that they are reviewing my case, working with Company A on rate increases, and stated that they (Company B) can easily make an addendum for pay once they finish talks with Company A, and request that I just sign the current agreement to keep the process moving along. This was followed up in an email stating that they are working with Company A, and that changes can be made after the onboarding process.
Here lies my dilemma.
Do I trust Company B, sign the paper work and move forward with onboarding?
Do I wait for Company B to finish talks with Company A (which they said should be within a week or so), and then continue onboarding?
I would hate to just sign the paperwork, and then have no room for negotation. It is hard for me to trust anyone/thing corporate and I am just seeking some reassurance from anyone that may have gone through something similar during a contract change.
Appreciate any feedback and I would love to discuss with anyone interested.