What Are the Benefits of Having a Union Job?

Unions negotiate safe working conditions on the job for their members.

Labor unions play a vital role in providing reasonable working conditions for their members. All too often, however, a private-sector employee does not enjoy the same advantages and misses out on the benefits of having a union job.

Fair Wage

Salary is stipulated by different job classifications that are agreed upon internally.

According to the American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations, nonunion workers earn 30 percent less each week than union workers. As a union worker, you receive a fair rate of pay based on the type of job you perform.

Paid Overtime

People with union jobs are automatically compensated for working long hours.

In a union environment, your base salary excludes any extra hours needed in the office. If regular hours of work are exceeded, overtime pay is guaranteed without question.

Representation

Union representatives support their members throughout the grievance process.

All union employees have a union representative to address any grievances between themselves and management. If you are wrongfully dismissed, for example, the union empowers you to challenge management's decision.

Proper Conduct

The employee handbook provides clear parameters for office conduct.

Inappropriate behavior displayed by co-workers or management is not tolerated. If you experience discrimination or sexual harassment, your union will handle the issue on your behalf.

Accountability

Unions represent a unified voice for the working class.

The union takes its role seriously. As an on-the-job voice, it holds itself accountable for protecting the rights of its members.

References

• AFL-CIO
• AFGE (American Federation of Government Employees)
• Lana Armstrong; Former Employee of CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees); Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Resources

• AFL-CIO
• AFGE (American Federation of Government Employees)
• CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees)