What is DOE (Depends on Experience)?
Definition: DOE (Depends on Experience) is a job posting abbreviation indicating that salary compensation will be determined based on the individual candidate's qualifications, skills, and relevant work experience rather than a fixed predetermined amount.
Also known as: Depending on Experience, Based on Experience, DOQ (Depends on Qualifications)
Quick Summary
TL;DRDOE (Depends on Experience) indicates that salary is flexible and will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience level. Rather than a fixed salary, employers evaluate each candidate individually. DOE gives negotiating room but can also mean uncertain compensation.
Key Facts
Meaning
Salary negotiable by experience
Job posting convention
Typical Range
20-40% variance possible
Compensation data
Common In
All industries
Job posting analysis
Candidate View
Can mean low transparency
Candidate feedback
DOE Creates Uncertainty for Candidates and Recruiters
DOE job postings frustrate candidates who want to know if a role fits their salary expectations before applying. Recruiters using DOE may receive applications from candidates far outside the actual budget. This wastes time for everyone. Additionally, DOE can raise pay equity concerns—without transparent ranges, similar candidates might receive different offers for unclear reasons.
Common Pain Points
- 1Candidates applying without knowing if salary meets their needs
- 2Recruiters screening candidates outside the actual budget
- 3Difficulty comparing DOE offers to roles with stated salaries
- 4Potential pay equity issues with inconsistent offer practices
How to Handle DOE Salary Discussions
Navigate DOE postings effectively as a recruiter or candidate.
- 1
Research Market Rates
Use salary data from Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Levels.fyi, or industry surveys to understand the range for similar roles.
- 2
Ask for Range Early
Recruiters: Provide a realistic range to candidates. Candidates: Ask for the budgeted range before investing in interviews.
- 3
Document Experience Value
Quantify relevant experience: years in role, specific skills, certifications, and achievements that justify higher compensation.
- 4
Negotiate Based on Value
DOE offers room to negotiate. Present your experience and market data to support your desired salary.
Result
DOE means there's flexibility—use it to your advantage with proper research and preparation.
DOE Deep Dive for Recruiters
Why Employers Use DOE
Employers list DOE for several reasons: they want to attract a wide candidate pool, they're unsure what the market requires, they have budget flexibility, or they want to avoid anchoring high before seeing candidates. While DOE can be strategic, it increasingly frustrates candidates—especially as pay transparency laws require salary ranges in many states.
Pay Transparency Laws Impact
Colorado, California, New York, Washington, and other states now require salary ranges in job postings. DOE alone may not satisfy these requirements—employers may need to list a range even if compensation 'depends on experience.' This is changing how DOE is used and interpreted in job postings.
Best Practices for Recruiters
Instead of DOE alone, consider listing a range with DOE: '$80K-$110K DOE' provides transparency while indicating flexibility. Always have an internal range approved before posting. When candidates ask about DOE, provide specific information about what experience levels command what compensation at your organization.
Common Misconceptions
- DOE means the employer has no budget in mind
- DOE always means lower salaries
- You can't negotiate when a job lists DOE
- DOE and 'competitive salary' mean the same thing
Salary Posting Approaches
| Approach | Example | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed Salary | $85,000 | Clear expectations | No flexibility |
| Salary Range | $80K-$100K | Transparent, flexible | May attract over-qualified |
| DOE Only | DOE | Maximum flexibility | Frustrates candidates |
| Range + DOE | $80K-$110K DOE | Balanced approach | Wide range may seem vague |
| Competitive | Competitive salary | Vague but common | Zero useful information |
Different ways to communicate compensation
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Present Candidates Professionally
Clear candidate presentation leads to better placements