I specialize in networking, video management systems, access control, and whatever the job requires. I manage inventory, configure rack and stack networking gear, train end users, develop implementation procedures, and coordinate with multiple entities to get things done.
My co-workers/managers are great people and incredibly helpful. The issue is we got bought out three years ago. Nothing changed until a year ago when corporate decided my whole department now shouldn’t be paid if we’re not “actively” working on a job. Prior to that my department was pretty much salary with guaranteed 40 hours a week. There are large breaks at times where you’re just waiting. If you’ve ever done contract work especially government you know the old saying “hurry up and wait”. My job doesn’t stop after the work day is over. I have respond to clients and think about what’s next. So imagine how we feel with this new policy.
My projects prior usually run in the six to seven figures and last a yearish. Which stopped since the acquisition three years ago so I’m working on smaller jobs now. My work requires me to answer emails, texts, and phone calls. I can claim these and get paid for the 15 minutes they take but I’d rather be paid the whole day. Especially annoying when I have to go on site for an hour to fix something and only get paid one hour the whole day. I get called for technical question by project managers constantly. They’re not at fault because they’re not in charge of my pay. It was never an issue because I liked helping my co-workers and taking pride in our work. But when you’re not being paid anymore you stop giving a fuck and start feeling disrespected
My bosses did make an effort to keep me when I gave my notice. I trust them but I don’t trust corporate. I averaged 22 hours a week the past couple months from 40 a week for six years. So glad I got a new job.
I took a position that pays significantly less but I get summers off now working for schools. Gonna be way less stress and benefits are 100% paid. My old company out of pocket was $500+ a month. It’s a publicly traded company that only cares about the bottom line.
TLDR: Old company treated me better and paid me full time. New company doesn’t care and pays me like a rental. Left for a better job.