You don't sound confident of retaining the job if it's posted. Why is this? Presumably you'd be the one ideally qualified for it since you've spent five years in the position already.

Your title — "Stuck in a Rut" — makes me think that maybe you're a bit tired of it in any case. Perhaps you'd be better off making preparations to leave now, before you're either rolled or have to accept your low wage.

Also, I moved your thread.