i honestly really appreciate these people that help us rid of the junk we throw out, but i just found out on local news that these guys make $13 an hour right now and want a 50% increase in pay?!

my first job (granted, more than 12 years ago) paid $4.25 an hour...my wife works her ass off and she makes a few cents above that...and she's got an MA from UW! what's up with that?

 

It's like the old plumber joke, "You're not paying me for how long it took, you're paying me for where I put my hands."

My take on it is that everyone should get paid as much as they can and every job finds its competitive value. How much education you have plays a minor role.

Trash collection is hard work (eliminates competition for jobs) at rude hours (same) under bad conditions (same). It also is dirty, unpleasant, and one of the most dangerous occupations (same). It is also totally necessary (intrinsically economically valuable.)

The other thing to think about is that the 50% raise is just a starting salvo in a collective bargaining activity. Keep in mind also, that these kinds of jobs cap out early.

 

Out trash haulers are out too...They want 75% increase in pay!

 

Oh, and I forgot to mention, I want a 100% increase in pay!

 

Forget trash, think hazardous waste. If you ever hear of anyone with a hazardous waste problem, PM me and I'll deal with. I'll also say thank you.

 

Unions

But hey it is a dirty job - But $13.00 an Hour

axcilla

 

Shoot! I wasted five years in college for nothing. I should have just forgotten about getting a Business degree and become a garbage man. They seem to be getting paid better these days.