How much should I be getting paid?

[%HopeItWorks%]

I work for a company that produces “Automation” equipment for the electronics industry…for the most part. Everything from concept to crate is done in-house.

The company is about 8 strong. A boss, accountant, secretary, project manager, engineer, an assembly guy specializing in electrical, myself in the machine shop, and the boss’s son helping out in the shop.

My main job function is to machine parts from drawings. This is done through either conventional or CNC machining. A lot of the parts that come from the engineer are pretty much CNC-only. So, because of this fact, I have taught myself how to use the Fadal, VisualMill, and the basics of G-code.

In addition to machining parts, I also help with assembly and operation (troubleshooting) of the machines we build. This includes anything from wiring up panels, to running pneumatics.

With most of my time spent in the machine shop, my job title still remains “Shop Tech.”


A main reason for wanting to earn more at this job is because I want to buy more accurate measurement devices and more effective tooling….to make myself more productive, oh... and to pay rent. My company does not believe in buying tools. Yes, I said they do not believe in buying tools…or measurement devices. It is like pulling teeth when I request a tool. When a tap is purchased, only one is purchased…the same goes for drills. I have to use my own calipers if I want to be anywhere close to the correct dimension when machining parts. This is because my boss does not believe that the company caliper, which is Chinese and jumps above and below zero about 0.003”, needs to be replaced.



Okay, so I ask the question:

How much should I be getting paid?, (per hour)???

[lakeside]

with out knowing what part of the US you are in the boston area would be $20-$28 hour

[%HopeItWorks%]

I'm in Huntington Beach, California (Southern California)


…And I left out that I just acquired a Batchelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology and Manufacturing (Used to be called Industrial Engineering)

[tobyaxis]

Had my share of working in HACK SHOPS in the TriState area. Like Lakeside said, not knowing where you are located a base pay would fall aruond $20-$30 and hour. HACK SHOPS are harder to work in, and personally I only use my own tools (inspection equipment), theirfore I charge a lot more for HACK SHOPS. Usually about 25% more than a well furnished shop.

A little insight, how is it that most shops expect people to make good parts with JUNK????? It is possible don't get me wrong, but it takes longer and is a waste of time.

Edit: Seeing you have a degree $35-$40 an Hour.

BTW: Only one good shop in the TriState area, MINE

tobyaxis

[lakeside]

with degree $25-$35 hour maybe more

[little bubba]

Originally Posted by %HopeItWorks% myself in the machine shop, and the boss’s son helping out in the shop.

I'm sure that as far as you're concerned the boss's son is "helping you out", but I'm sure as far as the boss is concerned, your the son's assistant, and are holding him back. Or if the boss's son acknowledges that you are his boss, then you are a mean retarded tyrant, or so the son tells the boss. Therefore for being in such a compromising situation, I'd say you're lucky to be making minimum wage.

In New Mexico, you're probably worth $10 an hour on the very high side, in any other reasonable place, $15 to start(quick raises up to $20+) up to $30+ if you're worth it.

[StealthDumpKits]

You're the base of a very small pyramid. More like a totem pole. Can anyone else do the work if you bail?

[lakeside]

Originally Posted by StealthDumpKits ...More like a totem pole.....

and it sounds like you are low man it may be time to find a new pole

[Ken_Shea]

I do not understand the complaint, did you not know what you were going to get paid when they hired you?

Did you accept that ?

Are they paying you that ?
If they are then they are holding up their end and you should do the same or give some notice and look elsewhere.

What you should be getting paid is what you agreed to when you were hired.

A BS degree is no guarantee of top wages, it is a good start but what about experience ??

Are you perhaps one of these young people who want to start at the top and then work your way higher , life ain't like that.


Ken

[Halfnutz]

I live OC also. Most places would start you at 12-15, but as soon as youve established your value to the company they should have you up above 20 pretty quick. With a few years experiance youd be worth 25-30, but the enormous illlegal labor pool here in SoCal will keep you below what your worth.

Its like everywhere though, there are places in Santa Ana that wouldn't pay more than 12 for anyone, and shops a block away that might pay 35 an hour for a skilled tradesman. Alot depends on your attitude and ability to negotiate, as well as the markets your servicing. There is a lot of potential in your field, but you might have to change jobs a couple times to get where you want to be.

[tobyaxis]

The Wigitmaster has the solution to the ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT PROBLEM. Can't remember which Thread, but it would be NICE to See Something done about this PROBLEM. As long as %HopeItWorks% is keeping up his end, he should get some kind of 3 month review. At that time if he proves to be worth more He Should Get It.

[StealthDumpKits]

Maybe if he had his own tools he would be worth more.....