IDK the whole circumstance of the contract of your husband's employment...but unless he signed on for the limited time, he should be able to receive the same pay for whatever job he "slides" into. That's one of the benefits of working for the government.

It's easier to have a job at reduced pay than none at all.

He can take the reduction (if he has to) and while he's working, look for a better paying position..thus keeping the benefits intact (and the opportunity to transfer them to a new position.)

TC