Operator salary?

[ROWmulcher]

Guys,
I am blessed and have allot of work, which Leeds me to my problem. I need additional operators. Preferable with a class A DL. What are your thoughts on hourly/ salary. For a good operator, with common sense, can represent our company and work safely above all else??? Is 18/hr a good start? 40k a year, no benefits? I have 10 hr weed eaters now, they are no equipment operators. Having a hard time finding someone that fits in my system. Granted my system is get the job done, no matter what the clock says. What are u guys doing for qualified help...??? I have fired more thiefs, druggies, alchis, no shows etc etc. I'm to the point of turning work away and just doing it myself, but the potential to grow is there. Just don't want to sacrifice the rep I have with some jackwagon.

 

[MF 1532]

I know what you are going thru :mur: I have been a small business owner for 18 years . I have had very little turnover . Salary has worked good for me ( add a bonus in good times . ) It's easy to figure , pretty much the same hours , except for me , I put in way more hours , ( in my experience , the more you can do yourself the more profit , satisfaction of job done right , less workmans comp. , payroll taxes , etc .. .) Sometimes you get what you pay for .. but you have to do what's good for your budget . Good Luck :thumbsup:

 

[Code54]

The lack of benefits maybe an issue with people seeking full time, long term employment. I understand the costs are the problem and don't blame you at all but the flip side is if someone one is stable, responsible, and looking long term, the benefits are a big part of the equation.
On another note - I personally would advertise that you drug test (Tell anyone that is looking for a job), even if you have no plans of doing it as it does seem to limit the less desirable candidates.

 

[rmk700]

Well, from an equipment operators perspective like myself, I'd say, start me at 20/hr, a company truck (that I can commute from home to work in) and benefits would be great. Oh and BTW I do fit your demands with confidence.

 

[yellowdogsvc]

I stay small because of exactly what you are going through. I can't replace me or my attention to detail easily though I'm sure I could find a better sales person. I have tried finding qualified help. I've been lied to, stolen from, and left hanging... by people that were either recommended to me or that I interviewed and hired. It really is amazing how many people on this planet are worthless liars and thieves.

It's tough finding people who will take care of the machines, stay off the phone, and not smoke in your cab. Showing up on time.. that might as well be a deal killer in this part of Texas. My advice, find a family member or someone like me who has a small biz and team up. You don't have to be partners to share in the rewards and work load. Pray on it and maybe the right person will show up. I definitely feel for ya and look forward to other's observations about this but your post definitely reminded me of my own problems.

Oh, and I didn't answer your question.. Duh. I'd pay a good operator $20/hr. Bonuses on some jobs. If they haul with their own vehicle, fuel and mileage or a moving fee. If I have to supply the truck and trailer, I might pay a little less.

 

[motownbrowne]

I think the hourly rate will vary regionally quite a bit. Only thing I can think to add is that if someone is running your equipment and representing your name with their actions at your customer's locations, you really should pay them whatever it takes to get yourself someone who's good. Happy employees work harder, and are much less likely to screw you over. Whatever it costs to keep them happy is worth it in the long run. Good luck.

 

[semntrails]

One way you might be able to offer benefits is offer them a stipend. My wife's company does that - she works full time makes $X/hr and then gets $500/month to help offset insurance, etc. That way they sort of get benefits and you don't have to pay extra hourly costs if they end up working a lot of hours in a week.

 

[PILOON]

See you are in Florida.
Check out Canadian retirees that need additional income to enjoy your sunny state in colder months.
Naturally they'd need to be paid cash.
More than once I was offered jobs when my trade skills were discovered. Compared to many southern migrant workers Canadians (Quebecer's) have excellent reputations.
The only downside would be length of employment as most would be unavailable during hotter season but I know of many that return year after year to the same 'winter job'.

 

[tonyoz]

What about employing on a subcontract rate, they pay their own add ons, get themselves to and from work and you pay them what is known over here as docket hours( hours the machine works plus say 1hr service time). That way they are kind of self employed as well and may take a greater interest in their work.

 

[WestshoreConstruction]

Going rate here is 30-50$ per hour depending on experience. Company trucks are often supplied. Lots of companies pay a day rate for the operator to use his own truck for Fuel and tools, $150-200/day and it's non taxable.