Raise Wages, Maintain Benefits, Position for Growth
PITTSFIELD — The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) announces the renewal of two Collective Bargaining Agreements with Teamsters’ Local Union 404. These agreements will improve employee pay, maintain benefits, as well as support ongoing recruitment and retainment efforts. Union employees voted to ratify both Agreements in late May after months of productive contract bargaining between Teamsters’ Local Union 404 and BRTA’s contracted transit services operator, Berkshire Transit Management, Inc. These renewed union contracts will guarantee scheduled pay raises, and excellent benefits, starting July 1st and continuing through June 30, 2027.
“These renewed Labor Agreements will not only benefit our employees but also our transit customers across the county. Our renewed Agreements are a testament to the respectful and cooperative relationship that we have with our Union labor partner, Teamsters’ Local Union 404.” said Rauley Caine, General Manager of Operations. Regardless, I am proud of what we have been able to achieve with our Union partner through these Agreement renewals, and I appreciate the opportunity to recognize our employees ongoing and unwavering dedication to the thirty communities that we serve every day.”
As of July 1st, 2024, the starting pay rate for Fixed Route Bus Operators will be improved to $23.67/hour, and top rate will be increased to $25.42/hour (after 6 months of employment). Paratransit Bus Operator and Dispatcher pay will be raised to $20.00/hour. Maintenace Technician pay will increase to $26.57/ hour, topping out at $30.37/hour for ASE-Certified Master Technicians. All full time and part time positions include paid time off, health and dental insurance coverage, retirement plan contributions, eleven paid holidays, and many other excellent benefits. These new three-year Labor Agreements guarantee the continuation of our amazing benefits. Combined with the recently announced increased hiring incentive of $1,000 sign-on bonus, these new Labor Agreements will provide stability and growth opportunities for BRTA well into 2027.
“I appreciate the hard work of all of the employees that make our transit system run. This contract reflects the dedication of everyone serving our mission to provide an efficient and effective public transportation service to enhance the economic vitality of the member communities through improved access to jobs, education, and the marketplace”, said Robert Malnati, BRTA Administrator.