Pay Based On The Task

TIP #7

In the prevailing wage blog, I mentioned that the pay rates would be based on the task performed, not the title. To better understand, let’s use the following scope of work for demonstration purposes only:

Demolish existing concrete slab and replace with new concrete slab measuring 16′ by 16″.

Demolish: Laborer group 1 or 3 depending on the tools utilized. $62.03 or $63.13
Framing: Carpenter $68.32
Rebar Installation: Iron Worker $76.355
Concrete Pour: Cement Mason $64.65

As a small subcontractor, the same person may be performing the work, which is allowed if there is no PLA agreement on the project. You must make sure that the worker is being paid the prevailing wage rate for each task they are performing. Prevailing wage is the minimum rate of pay, and nothing prevents the payment of a higher rate of pay.

A pre-job will be held before construction starts on a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) project. During the pre-job, the union representative may ask the subcontractor to clarify how the scope of work will be executed. They may claim a portion of the work. If there is a disagreement, the union representatives will state why it falls under their trades work.

Misclassification of the work is the most common mistake on the job site. One common misclassification is having the Laborer assemble the light fixtures to save money, $62.03ph. No matter how simple the light fixture seems to be, the assembling of light fixtures is the responsibility of the Electrician, aka Inside Wireman $82.36 ph.

If you can’t find the trade you are looking for, check under Step 1 Statewide or Step 4 County Determinations. It may sound complicated now; however, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.