University of California proposes historic wage hike to UPTE-represented employees

The University of California has proposed a huge increase in the wages of employees represented by University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE) in addition to the recent wage increases they received.

The University of California has suggested a historic wage increase of up to $260 million to employees represented by University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE). The increase in wages is subject to acceptance, if it gets approved then over 18,000 UC employees' pay will be boosted, which is 21% over the three-year contract.

In addition to the recent wage increases announced, the wage is intended to increase by 5% annually effective from July 1, 2025, and 3% annually each from July 1, 2026, and July 1, 2027.

Missy Matella, associate vice president for Systemwide Employee and Labor Relations commented, “We are excited to offer this to employees to recognize their hard work and impact on the University of California system. These employees offer essential services to ensure the University delivers impactful patient experiences and enhances lives through education, research and health care. In a budget year with constraints across our system, we have prioritized our union members’ compensation to reflect our appreciation and the value they provide.”

“We’ve heard from our UPTE-represented employees that work-life balance is a priority for them, and we want to recognize their priorities with proposals to address them while balancing our duty to provide critical patient care across the system,” Matella added.

More Employee Benefits

There will be health and home benefits fully paid by the University of California which includes Basic Life, Vision, Dental, basic disability, ID theft protection, tuition discounts, family care resources, adoption assistance, and financial and retirement planning consultations and resources. There are choices of quality HMO or PPO medical plans, rare choices of pension or 401 (k)- style plans, and benefits for domestic partners. There are also tax savings and extra protection available.

"UPTE represents health care, research support and technical professionals across the UC system. The University began negotiating a new contract with UPTE in June. UC knows collective bargaining is key to building strong, fair partnerships with labour unions based on trust and respect," reads the official statement.

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