Switching unions. Question for all of you. Please answer as unbiasedly as possible.
Happy Fourth everyone. I am sorry for the long post.
I am going into my last year as an apprentice in the operating engineers union. Currently my rate is $50.43 an hour (take home). Once I journey out, my pay will be at around $63.00 an hour, which again is take-home. This rate becomes higher in certain scenarios, like if I’m running a large crane or operating a hydraulic hammer from my crane.
However I was laid off for 4 months and started worrying about health insurance for next year. In this time I applied to the local elevators union and went through the whole application process.
I got a very good number and will most likely get a call within the next 4-5 months. I just don’t know what to do.
Do I start over and become a first year apprentice in the elevators? I would take a pay cut initially (first year is about $38.00 and hour) but after once second year hits, I would be making what I make now.
I do like running cranes. It is fun and I enjoy the challenges it can bring at times. Also, I have a machine doing all the heavy lifting. I don’t hurt my body or anything like that.
The elevator guys in my area seem to love what they do and they get great pay. But again, after this coming year, I’ll be able to run my own crane and have my own apprentice training under me.
I’m very sorry for the long post. I am just so torn about what to do. Thank you!