I used to have a job that paid $12./hr, got laid off. Was told I could come back.... depending on how little I was willing to work for. That was like a smack in the face! I told them I was already working for the lowest wage I would accept, but I was willing to go to part-time if that helped them stay in budget, as I would use my free time to generate other work - they had me back full time soon afterwards.

Good luck. It is frutstrating. the last job I got on the "short list" would have been wonderful - but it was a govt. job & they were obligated to offer it first to any veteran who applied, even though I was more qualified. There were 3 vets in front of me on the list. So I'm still looking.