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Nearly 100 IAM Local 1414 members working at Stevedoring Services of America (SSA) Terminals in Oakland, Calif., voted to ratify a robust new six-year contract that includes significant wage increases, enhanced healthcare and retirement benefits, and other critical improvements.
After three days of productive negotiations, the committee successfully secured retroactive pay, a generous 36% wage increase, a cash-out provision for excess vacation, and increased life insurance coverage up to $100,000. SSA has also committed to covering all health and welfare cost increases for the duration of this contract and will provide an additional $1 an hour into the IAM National Pension.
Furthermore, employees on the payroll during COVID-19 will receive a one-time deposit of $3,500 into their 401(k) accounts. The new agreement also includes jurisdictional language around crane work, guaranteeing an hour of overtime each day when the terminal is not already busy, and an increase of equipment allowance for rain gear and shoes.
In recognition of the important contributions of Cesar Chavez and hardworking employees, Cesar Chavez Day was added as a paid holiday.
“It’s fabulous for our members at SSA,” says IAM District 190 Directing Business Representative Don Crosatto. “This agreement raises the bar for everybody at the port. All the other employers will need to up their game a bit.”
“This amazing deal couldn’t have been accomplished without the hard work of shop stewards Mike Wood and Bruce Wilkerson, and committee members Roger Rodriguez, Walter Willis and Tim Weaver,” said Crosatto.
IAM members working at SSA are employed as heavy equipment, crane, chassis, and refrigeration mechanics.
SSA is one of the world’s largest international marine terminal operators.
“The hardworking IAM Local 1414 members at SSA are an indispensable part of the company’s operations, and their new contract is on the right path to acknowledge their outstanding contributions,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen.
Earlier this year, more than 300 IAM members from Locals 289 and 1484 working at SSA in Seattle and Long Beach, respectively, also won strong agreements that feature considerable wage increases and more robust benefits.
