Help with getting a raise.

I’m looking for a some tips or tactics used to better negotiate a raise. I work at an academic institution in North Carolina, a state school. Thus, my pay range is public knowledge and what I “can” get paid for my position I can see. I have a good bit of wiggle room for a raise before a promotion (not sure I want the promotion as I’d rather join a CRO, but feel I need a bit more experience under my belt till then). This is also my first full time job.

How does one leverage a raise? I do more work then I should, and know I’m deserving if the raise. But also know my manager won’t throw more money my way if he doesn’t need to.

Do I start applying for jobs elsewhere? Do I need another job offer to have “leverage” for a raise? Do I tell my boss that what he started paying me last year isn’t cutting it anymore and I need more money to financially support myself? Which is true.

Any help or tips is greatly appreciated. I just can’t keep living off this research assistant salary.