Good news for some New York workers: 2,600 employees to get salary raises up to $13,500 starting today

As New York State attempts to attract and retain qualified workers in the fields of architecture, construction, transportation, and other areas related to infrastructure, around 2,600 employees will receive a pay increase this week.

Of the five departments with workers receiving a raise, those employed at the Department of Transportation represent more than sixty percent of all public sector workers affected. Though not mentioned directly, civil engineers were a main focus of the Governor’s efforts to increase salaries within the government.

“New Yorkers rely on the skills and expertise of engineers to build roads and bridges, construct large-scale buildings, and prevent disasters from occurring,” noted Governor Hochul when describing the importance of the pay increases. Civil engineers in New York had a median income of $113,610 in 2023, and this is one of the many occupations that will see their pay increase between $7,000 and $13,000 a year. Union leaders representing many of these workers applauded the government’s move. “The approved pay differential will significantly impact the lives of these professionals and will also enhance the recruitment and retention of skilled talent, helping the Thruway Authority deliver on its mission of Safety, Service, and Reliability,” remarked Louis A. Picani, who serves as President of the Teamsters Local 456.

The other departments that employe workers impacted by these raises include, Department of Environmental Conservation (542 workers), Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (70 workers)m Department of Health (60 workers), and the Office of General Services (57 employees).

Change is Needed to Compete with the Private Sector for Talent

Attracting engineers and licensed professionals is already challenging and will become increasingly difficult as these fields grow more competitive. “It is clear that the state government needs to do more to attract a world-class talent pool to New York’s public sector,” noted one official, who described “geographic pay differentials” as “a smart investment in the future of the Empire State.” Throughout New York State, as in other states, there are differences in the cost of living, and the raises offered take those into account.

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