<prompt> Human: Sorry if this is the wrong place, but I wasnt sure where else to ask.Like 6-8 weeks ago I was at a wedding shower for a couple I know. While there was hanging out with an old high school friend who introduced me to her father who owns an engineering firm. We got talking and he joked about starting Monday for him because they really needed another mechanical guy which I am; they currently had this position posted on job sites. I followed up with a resume to him, went through three interviews and today was called with an offer formal letter email on its way. His daughter let me know my interview was one of the best technical interviews they ever had, etc etc, I really got the vibe they liked me.The job is posted locally with a pay range of 45-55hr. If I was offered 45hr it would be a 10 raise, if I was offered 55hr it would be a 35 raise. Instead I was offered 34hr... a 17 pay drop from current.Im torn how to proceed... I will not be accepting the job at that pay rate, no way. So do I just respond saying that it is below my current salary, and well below their posted range but thanks for their consideration - THE END to play hardball; with the hope they come crawling back? Or do I try and open negotiations straight away and just say I need XXhr or it wont work... it should be noted I really like my current job, very happy with everything about it except the fact there is zero room to move up without having to relocate, which my wife doesnt want to do. So I dont need to take this new gig, I can just stay where Im at and keep floating along happy as a clam; but if I can snag 30 more money without having to move, awesome.Thanks for any insight, this whole thing is just far different than other offers Ive gotten and has caught me off guard.EDIT - Posted an updated -  <response>: Huh, Im curious why the offer is below the posted minimum, but in any case I appreciate the offer and Im very interested in working for your company. But I really couldnt leave my current job for less than XX. For XX we have a deal, otherwise Ill have to politely decline. 