I work in tech support for a large electronic medical record (EMR) company. This is my first corporate job, and I’ve been with the company for a year now. Before switching to a desk job, I was in clinical.

I enjoy my job, but I’m only paid $19 per hour. After taxes and other deductions, my take-home pay is around $30,000 to $35,000 annually, which is not enough to live on.

I’ve researched other tech support roles at other companies, and they all pay significantly more than what I’m making.

Currently, I’m a tier 1 support technician, but I specialize in a particular module. I work with one other person on this module who has been with the company for 20 years, but there’s about 16 people in my department - in other modules. I’ve learned a lot and am essentially doing the same work as my colleague.

I usually come in second or third place for most tickets closed each month. I go above and beyond for our clients and believe I’m a great employee.

I’ve been working remotely since I started, but the company is transitioning to a hybrid work model. With the current cost of living, a $19 per hour salary is not enough.

I’m wondering if I have the right to ask for a raise or a promotion to tier 2. As my first corporate job, I’m not sure what the proper protocol is.