Hello! Sorry if the formatting is strange, as I'm using mobile. (TLDR at the bottom)
Context:
I work at a vet clinic that was bought out by a big corporation in 2019, I honestly really do love the place and my coworkers. I've been in the field for four years and this location is probably my favorite I've worked for. They offer great benefits, EAP, 401k, multiple types of insurance, and PTO to name the few big ones.
Recently, however, my coworkers and I have been discussing our pay rates since I brought it up earlier in the week. Turns out that I make more than a lot of the other seasoned techs that have been there longer than me (for context, I started in October of 2021). Granted, I knew my worth when being hired, as I've been trained in surgery, dentals, and lab at previous clinics, and told the hiring manager that I wanted $22, but settled for $19.25 in order to get out of my, at the time, toxic work environment. The thing is, all my other coworkers have similar experiences and they don't get paid that much. One of my coworkers who's essentially a lead tech, talked to our manager about how we all need fair, living wages – only to be told that her hands were tied unfortunately. A lot of us have since started talking about wanting to start a Union but are unsure what proper steps are. Does anyone have any advice?
TLDR: Coworkers and I want to start a Union after realizing that I, a new hire, get paid more than seasoned technicians. Advice appreciated.