Damn, Washington State Ferry management has screwed up so bad they even have the tesla sycophants telling them to get their shit together
While I don't agree with the idea of these sick-outs, I think its important for the state to pay competitive wages to the mariners who are responsible for keeping our ferry system running.
$157k base is low in terms of industry average for a chief engineer, especially in the PNW's high inflation economic climate. $350k with overtime sounds attractive until you realize that the overtime feels relentless and results in burnout.
From what I understand, the engineers are asking for a 20% pay increase, which from my perspective as a lowly taxpayer, seems reasonable. If you want to attract and *retain* good talent, you need to compensate people appropriately.
Thank you and the crew for all that you do!