I’m a long term hourly LSR in the RESEA program and I have been with labor for about 9 years. As an hourly, I’m responsible for the same duties permanent LSRs perform. However, I earn about $15,000 to $18,000 less a year then a permanent with 8 years of experience. Moreover, as an hourly, I can’t be considered for promotions or transfers. To add insult to injury, I also earn less than permanent LSRs with 2 years of experience. Go figure.
On the last LSR exam given in 2017, I scored a 90, and missed getting a 100 by 2 questions. So getting 2 more questions wrong than candidates who scored a 100 cost me about $15,000 to $18,000 a year in earnings and any hope of becoming permanent in the foreseeable future.
I feel like a second class citizen at DOL. When I first started working at DOL I was advised by permanent staff that hourlies don’t matter and to search for new work.
I love working at DOL, and I’m passionate about helping job seekers secure meaningful employment. I’m good at my job and I want a career at DOL. I just want to be compensated and treated fairly and given respect for the work I do.
This story was submitted by a member at the New York Department of Labor. Identifying information has been redacted for their protection.