USPS Position Letter: Article 9; Salaries and Wages (1983)

The question raised in this case is whether the grievant was improperly denied salary protection after bidding for and being reassigned to a lower level position.  Our review of the information provided established that the grievant was properly denied salary protection.  The grievance file is documented to show that he was offered a position on the same tour, with the same non-scheduled days, and at the same salary level.  He declined acceptance in writing.  When a second position at the same level but on a different tour became available he did not bid, choosing instead to bid on a lower level assignment.  Under the circumstances, we find the grievant’s reduction in salary to have been voluntary.  Accordingly, the grievance is denied.