You can always ask

OP here, thanks, this is helpful. Sounds like it can be done if they want you badly enough.

9:58, what step were you in before the GS 11-7? Did you move from a Step 1 to a step 7?

I moved from a GS 11 in one part of my agency to a GS 11 in another. They were able to give me a GS 11 Step 7. I negotiated it because I was unwilling to leave the fellowship program I was in without some sort of financial incentive, otherwise I would have just finished the fellowship.

They had to write something up about special skills I had that they needed in order to justify the step level.

I'd love to know this answer too! I'm an 11 applying for other 11 jobs (but with a higher range 11-13, and I'm currently at GS7-11 job). I'm curious if my steps get negotiated once I'm offered a job?

Do they bring you on at the same grade and step or do they give you additional steps?

Yes.

You might be able to negotiate more Annual Leave days.

you cannot jump from a 3 to an 8, there are requirements that you spend time is level before moving to y level. You could possibly move from 3 to 5.

I am currently a GS-12, and another office in my agency has mentioned they might want to bring me on into another GS-12 position. I have been hoping to get a GS-13 or some time, but not much has been posted, so I am thinking about this lateral move as something that could have some benefits (better title, access, mentors). I am a 12 step 3, and was wondering if I could ask to be moved up to a 12 step, say, 8 or so if I were to get this position.

Getting some additional steps would offset the fact that it's not the GS 13 that I really think I deserve (and already perform at). Has anyone negotiated steps in a more lateral move?

Thanks!