Your first question about money, and how much you could earn though...
You are right my first question is about money. But that is what this online forum is for right, to ask questions you are not sure about.
Just because it is my first question it does not mean it is my main concern. These are all assumptions.
I know much about the role. It is safety critical role. Safety has always been my priority, in work and play and therefore I think I am right for the role. My main attraction to the role is: The company, job security, workers union, and the ability to do overtime.
If I was offered a grade 9 role at £48k with no option of overtime, would I do it? I would consider it but I wouldnt jump at it. Being in the trade, I have the potential to get a job and earn a similar amount without going through such a rigorous recruitment process with high number of applicants. But the OT in such jobs are limited.
The potential for overtime and to earn more money is an attraction for me, togehter with pension, holiday, benefits, etc.. I am currently self employed and I do alot of hours, so I am only asking questions to compare to my current situation and making an analysis to see if a career change is right for me.
Remember assumptions is the mother......you know they saying!
Would I do the job for £20k in this day and age? No.
You work for: Money, job security, a stable career, holiday, pension, benefits
You apply for jobs: which suit your skills, you enjoy doing
You are 100% right in saying that you should not apply for the job purely because of the pay/money, I totally agree with you, you will not last in the job or even get the job in the first place, if you dont enjoy doing and cant show your passion during the interview stage.
Dont mix up the two, an inquiry into Money and benefits etc does not negate your consideration for why you applied for the job. I wouldnt train to be a doctor even though the pay is good, im not cut out for it.