I was just hired on as a Behavioral Health Tech at a behavioral hospital I knew of while working on the ambulance. I figured, having four years experience as well as extra certifications such as my EMT, my FEMA classes, BLS Certification… I was told during the interview I was not being hired to do “EMT work,” though I beg to differ as I do EKGs, take vital signs, observe and chart and if needed administer medical aid, I found out I am getting paid $.50 less than other new hires, hired as the same job position and with no medical experience. Is there a way to bring this up tastefully without getting any one into any trouble? I understand it’s within my rights to discuss wages – my younger colleagues were very afraid of telling me anything else, but their inability to answer told me all I needed to know.
I just want to know if this is worth pursuing, honestly. I just feel bummed out as I love the mental health field but I want to be paid what I’m worth. I was paid $19.00 at my last job as a physician substitute at a plasma center so it was difficult hearing this wage drop. But a job is a job.
Thank you for any advice 🙂
ETA: I am being paid 16.50 at the moment, 26/F in TX if that makes any difference.