Mostly for the rookies.

I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the center and the job. Odds are that if you are reading this page you are new to the job. I want to assure you that I am here to help you succeed not only with the job as a driver but to succeed as a good union member. I pride myself on being available to the members I represent. If you do not already have my business card please let me know and I will give you one. It has all of my contact information. (This information is available within this website also)

I know that being new to the job can be stressful but don't panic, you will survive. If you have any questions about what you should or should not do please ask either myself or the assistant steward Doug Goehringer, we will be more than happy to help you. I would much rather spend time now educating you than spending time later defending you in the office.

Understand that as a new driver you WILL make mistakes, we all did when we started, the key is to learn from them and ADMIT that you made a mistake. Trying to lie or hide something is not the answer. We are human beings and mistakes happen. Do not allow yourself to feel pressured or rushed, do the job the way you were trained by following the methods and working safely. It may not seem like it but the pieces will fall into place and you will be able to report in the morning and not panic when the boss tells you what route you're doing that day.

Since you are at the bottom of the seniority list you will also be on what is called the "extra" list on the schedule. (the schedule, or start times are posted on the door to the center office). What this means is that the company can notify you one day in advance not to report to work the following day. If by 5pm you have not been told that then you are to report at your posted start time. If they tell you there is no work you must get me immediatly and don't leave the building. If I'm on the road I will come back, you are entitled to report pay (4 hours @ your regular rate). By some miracle they seem to find work when I remind them of that. They are also not allowed to have you deliver air and then go home after 2 or 3 hours, we call that "working time only". Once you punch in for the day you are entitled to earn no less than 8 hours pay. Again, if they try this get in touch with me and I'll get you the work or the pay. You are the newest drivers and thereby typically the least educated about your rights, I am aiming to change that. Just remember, if you come to work you are entitled to work regardless of the bullshit lines the bosses give you.

Below are a few of the more common questions that new employees have. If you have any other questions, concerns or comments please feel free to come talk to me. I am here for you, that is my job as shop steward.

How do I "make book"?

Making book means that you have been kept on after your probationary period. After working 40 days in a 70 day period (not counting orientation) you will aquire seniority. Your seniority date will be the first day of your orientation. (remember that date!!, it's important)

There is what is called a "free period" thst begins October 15 andends December 31st, no employee can attain seniority (make book) during this period.

While working towards making book it is important to keep a record of all days you worked. A simple pocket calander works fine for this, simply make a note each day you work. This will help us confirm that you have worked your 30 days.

How many sick days and oph's do I get?

Sick days.

All employees with less than one year seniority are entitled to:

1 Day after 4 months

2 Additional days after 6 months

1 Additional day after 8 months

1 Additional day after 9 months

1 Additional day after 12 months

Unused sick days will be paid during the first pay period after April 30th at 8 hours straight time.

Optional Holidays 

3 days after 6 months

2 additional after 9 months

How do I enroll in the 401(k)?

The easiest way is go to www.teamsters.com  and follow the prompts to the teamster-ups 401(k).

How much vacation do we get? (not enough !!)

The vacation schedule for full timers is as follows:

1 week after 1 year

2 week's after 2 year's

3 week's after 5 year's

4 weeks after 15 years

5 week's after 20 year's

6 week's after 25 year's

Summer vaction period is May 1 to Sept. 30

Winter vacation period is Oct. 1 to April 30 (excluding Sunday after Thanksgiving to Dec. 25)

If you have two or more vacation week's you must select at least one winter week.