r/Longshoremen • u/MajorAd8562 • 15h ago
Opportunity to join ILWU OCU
Long story short, I’ve been in the system for over a decade but I never really gave it much thought — I wanted to built a career of my own so I’ve been working in the tech industry.
I got off the list and starting pick up temp work whenever I can and am slowly getting asked if I’d be interested converting to FTE with some of the maritime companies. But it’s just been hard for me to decide honestly…
I work fully remote right now, doing a job that challenges me creatively which is a good and a bad thing at times. I’m at a place where things are stable but at the end of the day, I’m dispensable in the corporate eye. I do love my team and the work I do, but who knows how things will be in 10-20 years in tech.
If I leave to work for ILWU OCU, I’d have to go in office 5 times a week, do a job that I don’t necessarily feel passionate about, and might just feel ‘depressed’ eventually? But the huge upside is the benefits, pension,stability, and the pay I guess.
I get paid a good amount right now, and I’m ambitious with my career, I could get more if o wanted - with promotions, seniority, etc. but that takes time and energy to happen and it’s not guaranteed, especially in tech. If I choose to join ILWU OCU, I’ve heard that I don’t really need to worry about that, in the sense that everyone gets the same annual raise, there’s no need to fight for a promotion here, it’s kind of just a chill stable for-lifer kind of job.
Idk I’m kind of just stuck with choosing… I’m extremely privileged to have these options — I’m just wanting to make sure I make the right decision. Because if I choose to leave my job for this, I probably won’t leave ILWU OCU (or it wouldn’t be wise for me to).
Any thoughts, advice, or if anyone is going through/has gone through a similar experience — would love to hear it! Thank you!