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Getting What You Deserve

Getting What You Deserve
By Stan Johnson

As we start peak season, it’s time to reflect on what has happened for EAS employees. We have no pay package, which does not reflect well on the people who are supposed to be the leaders in this business. When is the Postal Service going to show they care about EAS employees and treat us with dignity and respect and engage us for change?

The pay package for postmasters was supposed to go into effect on Sept. 29, but it has been delayed. Why it didn’t happen, no one is saying. To me, it’s just another hatchet job by postal leadership.

I want to talk about something that can’t be taken away from you concerning pay during the Christmas period. Starting in December, usually around the first week, supervisors and managers can enjoy some extra pay. Unfortunately, this does not affect postmasters; they again are left standing with their hands out. They should be compensated the same as all other managers. But postal management just won’t do the right thing.

So, with that being said, below is what the ELMstipulates regarding special pay procedures during December. This is an opportunity for managers and supervisors to earn some much-deserved extra money. It’s up to supervisors and managers who are affected by these changes during December to take advantage or else we’ll be leaving more money on the table.

If you find yourself working more than 8.5 hours, you need to have a conversation with your immediate supervisor. Ask them what they want you to do—go home or be paid for your hours after 8.5. If necessary, swipe your time card and let those who look at TACS either approve or decline it.

As always, special-exempt employees are eligible for additional pay after 8.5 hours, year-round. That’s extra pay you deserve, so it’s up to you—if you’re affected—to take advantage of something already in the handbooks.

I hope everybody has a safe and joyous holiday season. Hopefully, the new year will bring us the pay and dignity we deserve as managers of this great organization.

434.144 Eligible for FLSA-Exempt EAS Additional Pay

“FLSA special exempt employees in EAS-18 positions and below are eligible for EAS additional pay if authorized to work over 8.5 hours on a scheduled day or any hours on a nonscheduled day, even while on a temporary assignment such as to an OIC position. When authorized work exceeds 8.5 hours on a scheduled day, EAS additional pay is received for the first half hour as well as for the authorized work over 8.5 hours. Regular FLSA-exempt employees in EAS-23 positions and below positions except postmasters and officers-in-charge are eligible during the designated Christmas period provided they are authorized to work over 8.5 hours on a scheduled day or any hours on a nonscheduled day and the additional hours are spent directly supervising bargaining unit employees in mail processing or delivery functions[emphasis added].”

stan240@msn.com

Stan Johnson is Spokane, WA, Branch 60 president and postmaster of Airway Heights, WA.