2,000 NJ Security Guards Get Pay Hike After Threatening To Strike

NEWARK, NJ — A potential strike was avoided in New Jersey last week when more than 2,000 security guards reached a deal with their employers.

The workers are employed with two of the world’s largest security contractors: Allied Universal, and Securitas. Together, they safeguard multiple hospitals, universities, office buildings, cultural centers and government sites in New Jersey, according to their union, 32BJ SEIU.

A tentative four-year deal with their employers was reached on Oct. 27. Union members ratified the contract on Oct. 30.

The deal averts a potential strike that would have impacted some of New Jersey’s “most iconic buildings,” union spokespeople said.

“For months, these officers stood up, spoke out, and made it clear that they would not back down until they were treated with dignity and respect,” said Ana María Hill, New Jersey state director and vice president of 32BJ SEIU

“When security officers win, public safety wins,” Hill said. “This victory is proof that organizing works, and that when workers stand together, even global corporations have to listen.”

According to the union, some “key gains” in the new work agreement include:

• Wage increases of up to 29.41 percent over four years for officers previously earning the $17/hour minimum, and a $4 per hour increase over four years for those earning above the minimum — to bring the average median wage to $23.65 an hour
• Improved paid holidays
• Protected high quality health benefits with no cost sharing

Workers previously rallied in Newark in September. Their demands included “real raises, the protection of their health benefits, more paid time off, training benefits and legal benefits.”

“From University Hospital to major sites such as Audible, Prudential Tower, NJPAC and Seton Hall Law School, workers united through rallies, door-to-door canvassing and community outreach,” the union reported.

“We showed New Jersey what solidarity looks like,” said Najee Wagstaff, an Allied Universal officer at University Hospital in Newark.

“We protect the public every day,” Wagstaff said. “Now, we’ve secured a contract that reflects the value we bring.”

• See Related: Frustrated Security Guards Rally In NJ For More Pay, Better Benefits

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