Total Compensation: Pay Isn’t Just Wages

Article/post written by Ronald Woerner, Senior Recruiter @ Xemplar Tradesmen Recruiting – July 5, 2021

As a recruiter, I cannot stress enough to my candidates to look at a new position’s total compensation package before accepting any offers for trades jobs. Last month I had an equipment mechanic decline an offer from a client of mine because he found a position on his own for $2.75 more an hour. Unfortunately, that same candidate just reached back out to me today. Turns out he just realized his monthly health insurance cost for himself and family is going to be $970 a month. His new employer does not contribute anything to his monthly health insurance. My client would have covered 100% of the health insurance cost for himself & his family. Now instead of making $2.75 more an hour, he is making a significant amount less each month due to his health care cost.

My suggestion is to always get a written offer for trades jobs from a potential employer and review all of the benefits they provide. Evaluate their health insurance, vacation, sick time, and their 401k contribution. These details can make a huge difference over time.