They may underpay staff so that they can undercut and win contract bids. Before you take a position with them, ask some other companies or colleagues in the industry what salaries should be. New folks to the NOAA contracting world, connect with fellow contract employees. We all look out for one another and are usually happy to share info and perceptions. Junior scientists/analysts should be making $75-$85K per year, senior scientists/analysts should be making $90-$110K year, and folks working on NEPA are typically $110K+. Also, you should contract a guaranteed annual increase. Most NOAA contracts have one built in with the contracting company. If they are making more money the next year, so should you.