I’m the shop manager for a metal shop for a roofing company in the hill country of texas. I’ve been here 6 years.
We went from doing jobs to maybe 5-6 contractors 6 years ago to now over 30, and I am not given the tools or space to be able to do my job safely and efficiently.
The shop is entirely to small for the amount of flat sheets/ coils we do, and the yard is full of underlayment we have no space for. Trying to drive a forklift and move stuff is a nightmare.
Every time I finally figure out how to handle the workload , they figure “oh we can hire more subs and do more jobs now” and just tell me “just do what you can” which has had me perpetually working 50-60 hours a week since the pandemic happened.
I’m also expected to work in the shop, keep in contact and take orders with 30 damn contractors and do inventory on many of the items we Carry. I’m doing the job of a laborer and a manager.
I’m burnt out, and after asking for change for years I realize this is just the way it’s going to be.
I like what I do because it’s specialized and not a lot of people can do it, I have pride in my work, but I’m just being stretched too thin.
Would a union help in this situation? We only have 7 people in the shop do I only have to get them to organize with me or what?
My goals is for less work more pay and added medical benifets.
Thanks y’all