The new UE Local 275 contract at Viking Kitchen provides wage increases of 50, 55 and 60 cents in each of its three years, with an additional ten cent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in the first year and additional COLAs in the second and third years if inflation continues to be high.
The scheduled wage rate is also adjusted due to increases in the state minimum wage. Within 60 days of hire, new workers will be at $16.00 to $20.00 depending on their job; after one year they will be at $16.50 to $24.00 depending on their job. Workers who become proficient in multiple jobs will be able to earn an hourly rate exceeding the maximum one-year range.
The Local 275 negotiating committee consisted of President Hector Juibe and Vice President Jose (Danny) Santiago. They were assisted by Field Organizer Sherry Bryant.