An equivalent position is one that offers the same:

• Pay
• Benefits
• Status
• Other terms and conditions of employment
• Requires the same skill, effort, responsibility, and authority 

When you return from a period of FMLA absence, you will also retain any special salary rate or locality rate applicable to the position occupied before your FMLA leave began. The following must also be the same:

• Appointment type
• Tenure
• Work schedule
• Commuting distance
• Potential for promotion, training, bonuses, awards, and premium pay must also be the same