How much is joining the union going to cost me?
There is a one-time initiation fee, monthly dues, and a working wage assessment. Assessments are usually between 1% and 5% This can be calculated at 1 to 5 pennies per dollar.

What are union dues?
Union dues are monies deducted to pay for the business of the local, such as training, office salaries and supplies, maintenance, etc. All money is approved and voted on by (you) the member.

Do I have to take a test to become a member?
Some locals have placement questions that allow them to determine your training level. This is not a test to keep you out of the local. We want you as a member.

Do I have to certify to become a member?
NO. You don't have to certify to become a member. You will though need to certify if you are trained as a welder, medical gas installer, fiber optics or if you need a state plumbing license. The union can assist you in obtaining these certifications.

How do I get initiated?
As stated earlier, once you decide to become a member, you pay a one-time initiation fee. This is usually between $200 and $250, but could be higher in some areas. Please ask. Many locals allow you to pay this initiation fee in installments to make it easier for you.

Will I be accepted by the other union members?
Yes. Once you become a member you are considered to be a brother or sister and share in the camaraderie of the union.

What will my voting rights be in the union?
You have the same right to vote as all other members under the UA Constitution.

What happens during a strike?
The union will work to settle any strike as quickly as possible. While doing this they will help you find temporary work in a sister local. Most UA locals have not been on strike in many, many years. This is not something that is as prevalent now as it was in the 1960's and before. You have the right by law to continue working as an employer or an employee.

What happens if I quit or get fired?
If you quit or have been laid off, you must come in and request your name be placed on the out of work list and will be placed on a new job.

What are the hiring rules?
You will work in most areas from what is called an out-of-work list. Special consideration is given to people who have certain qualifications. (plumber, welder, service techs, etc)

Will I be able to keep working regularly and year-round?
You should be able to continue working on a regular basis, and if necessary be able to travel to our sister locals if you wish. There

How long will I have to sit on the bench if there is no work?
You can work anywhere in the United States and Canada where work is available.

Is everyone paid the same?
All workers at the same skill level will receive the same pay. All journeymen receive the same wages, all superintendents get the same, all foremen get the same, all general foremen get the same, etc. If you exceed the expectations of the contractor they may pay you above scale. We only request they pay you what amount is bargained for.

What is overtime?
Overtime is time worked after eight (8) hours in a day or if you are required to come in before your regular starting time. Overtime is usually paid at time and one-half during the week and Saturdays. Sundays and holidays are double time.

Will I be forced to work overtime?
NO. You are not required to work overtime unless you want to. Some employers may request that the person work over eight (8) hours in the case of a shutdown or other special circumstances in which the work is critical.

Will I be able to get vacation time?
Yes. As a courtesy you should ask the contractor you are working for and give them enough time to hire someone to temporarily replace you while on vacation.

Is it paid vacation?
Not usually in the building and construction industry, however, in the service area many employees do receive vacations, holidays and sick days.

What kind of insurance coverage will I be able to get?
You will receive the insurance that everyone else has in the union. This is paid through the collective bargaining process and is an employer contribution.

Will there be any profit-sharing?
No, although some contractors pay their people above scale. We have defined benefit, contribution and 401K plans that are much better than profit sharing because the government guarantees them. Check with your local union for 401K availability. Some businesses do give their employees a profit sharing dependent on the company and the position the person holds in the firm

What kind of pension benefits will I be eligible for?
You will be eligible for the same pension benefits as all other members. Most have a five (5) year vesting period and have retirement eligibility that range from 55 to 65 years old in some locals. If you have worked in the trade before you may be eligible for additional vesting credits. Please talk to your organizer. When you are considering retirement please speak to the benefits person at your home local.

Who will supply the tools?
The contractor supplies the tools, although you are responsible for keeping the tools in good shape so they do not have to replace them continually. When working for a service contractor you may be asked to supply your hand tools. Please check the agreement that you will be working under for specifics.

Will I get a company truck?
It depends on which contractor you are working for and how long you have been employed by the company. Many of the service companies as well as shop companies supply their employees vehicles.

Will I be able to travel? Will I get travel pay?
Yes. Once you receive your travel card you have the option to travel and work for other locals. If you are working out of your home local jurisdiction you will be paid travel and subsistence.

Is additional training available?
Some locals offer training to enhance your skills and assist you in obtaining better work opportunities.

Who pays for additional training?
The money allotted for training is determined during contract negotiations between the union and the contractors.

Will there be drug tests?
Some owners require a drug test and some do not. If you are to take a drug test and fail, the information is confidential and you will have the opportunity to seek assistance if you wish. The union will help you get this assistance.

Will there be better working conditions?
Yes. In the union the working conditions are better. This is proven in study after study that has been done by independent consultants.

What are the safety policies and training?
The safety policies are that the members attend a ten (10) hour OSHA course. There are also additional classes that you may take to improve on the safety of you and your workers. The (10) ten hour program gives you the basics and helps to ensure your safety. The locals are equipped with OSHA instructors to assist you in extra training you may need. Examples are confined spaces, hazardous waste, and others.

Get Involved

Do you have a question you would like to see listed on our FAQ page? Please send your questions (and answers/optional) to: info@ualocal23.org