Interested in Two Jobs at One Company

[theoriginalbean]

So I want to relocate, and I'm applying to an out-of-state foundation. There are multiple open positions. One of them is my dream job, but I'm not 100% that they'll find me fully qualified, even though I have a lot of experience in that area and my skill set matches their qualifications. I'm 2 years short of the years they're looking for.

There is another position that I'm ABSOLUTELY more than qualified for.

Is it considered bad to apply for two positions? I already applied for the one I really want, but can I say that I'd also like to be considered for the other position, should they decide that I'm not qualified enough for the more senior position?

If it makes any difference, the jobs are somewhat similar, but there's a big step between them. They're both data analyst/statistician jobs.

[drloretta]

Are you working with a recruiter? If so, I'd run it by them to see if you should shoot low or shoot high.

[theoriginalbean]

No, but one of my co-workers knows their organization well and she suggested that I apply for the more senior position. (I trust her judgement because she's in the position I'm interested in and turned down a job to direct their organization last year)

I submitted my information through their site on Monday, but now I'm having remorse because I'm wondering if I should have gone for the other, or, at least indicated that I would be willing to interview for the lesser position.

[brookles]

I'd just apply to both.

But it's likely that, even if they don't think you're qualified for the more senior-level position, they'll call you in to interview for the other one anyway. We do that here sometimes, and have done so at other companies I've been with.

[juangela]

I would apply for both. It might go to a different recruiter within the organization (depending how big the org is) and you wouldn't want to miss out on the 2nd opportunity just because your resume didn't fall into the right person's hands!

[beaglechon2012]

I agree, apply for both. It's worth taking a shot and covering your bases, but I do think you did the right thing in starting with the more senior position.