Originally Posted by
Lizzy Bordon
Seems like the utility guys feel they should just hire more full time lineman since they can not handle all the work pushed at them. They think someone is getting more overtime. The utility lineman feel they are getting shafted and the contractors feel they are getting all the shit work the regular lineman do not want to do. I have heard both side say the job is done wrong.......look at the crappy construction......they are all stuck with the same cheap slim budget to get the job done on. Who really wants to walk in that swamp with all the mesquitos even if it is double time. Seriously......no one zip nadda.
I have seen storms in NJ where the contractors can work forever and the shop guys sent home. That is a bitter pill to swallow. I have seen storms where the shop guys replace the contractors. Keep in mind the companies love animosity. They enjoy the school yard squabbles. Half of your best friends were either contractors gone utility or the other way around. The contractors have a set job to do, budgeted, no amount of morning meeting screaming will get rid of them. They do not get unlimited overtime on the company dime(the company is too cheap).
Bottom line........you would save your fellow IBEW lineman, good or bad, thick or thin so why cant you all just get along. Bottom line is money.....and going home in one piece......double edged sword.