Unique situation:
I'm an advanced Assistant at an R1, but the University is really more of an R2 and Psychology/my scholarship is not valued by the upper administration. At all.
-Department Chair of University 1 has made initial contact regarding a phone call to discuss an offer (went on in-person interview already). No verbal or official offer yet. This place is a land-grant tier 1 state institution and the University and Departmental situation would be a huge improvement over my current place. But, it is in a state that has mimicked Trump's federal hiring freeze by instituting a state-level hiring freeze. A little nervous about the offer, and this would most likely be another advanced Assistant position.
-Search Chair of University 2 requesting an in-person interview. This place has a good Department and would be a good location but institution not on the same level of first place. If I had offers from both places I would probably lean towards first place. However, this could be Associate level.
Should I accept offer of an in-person interview at place 2? Should I not say anything about place 1, or use it as leverage to move up timeline/negotiate Associate status?
I agree that it's a dick move to take interview slots from potential candidates when you have an offer, but the offer at place 1 is in the infancy stage and could get pulled. Place 2 would be a great option if place 1 didn't work out.
Please share your thoughts, this is a very timely decision and family considerations are highly relevant.
Thanks!