The UO and UOSW bargaining teams have reached tentative agreements on a number of articles for the initial collective bargaining agreement, with only a few issues remaining. Refer to the complete list of proposals for more information. Mediation proposals on the remaining items have been exchanged through the negotiation process.
Key elements of the university's latest offer on April 27, 2025 before the union moved forward with their strike include:
- Wage increases – categories and levels that align with the UOSW proposal and increases to the minimum starting salary [6% in year one (previously 5%), 3% in year two, and 3% in year three]. The offer also includes increases to the pay ranges in future years.
- Grievance - Structured grievance process that includes provisions for arbitration.
- Payroll advances – allows an option for student workers in the event of an emergency.
- Shift meals – formalizes current shift meal practices in University Housing that provide student employees meals at a reduced cost on the days they work.
- Pay cycle – establishes a working group with UOSW representation to explore the feasibility and complexity of a bi-weekly pay cycle, which is costly and impacts other employee groups.
- Leaves - sick leave accrual rates that match other employee groups.
Wage Proposal Comparison
UO Offer as of April 30, 2025
| Level | Rate per hour |
|---|---|
| Student Level 1 | $15.58 – $19.08 |
| Student Level 2 | $16.08 – $19.58 |
| Student Level 3 | $16.58 – Over $20.08* |
Future Increases
- 6% pay increase to the minimum starting rate upon ratification.
- 3% increase to the starting rates in each of the three subsequent years, effective July 1 of 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Key Considerations:
- Currently, student employee pay starts at $14.70 per hour.
- A student employee earning less than the agreed-upon starting pay would receive a pay increase to the minimum hourly rate in the pay range applicable to the designated level for their position. No student employee would receive a reduction in pay when remaining in their same job.
- The university's current student pay structure with five levels would move to three as proposed by the union.
*Over $20.08/hour requires approval from Employee and Labor Relations
UOSW Offer as of April 30, 2025
| Level | Rate per hour |
|---|---|
| Student Level 1 | $17.50 |
| Student Level 2 | $18.00 |
| Student Level 3 | $18.50 |
Future Increases
- 3% increase to the pay scales effective July 1 of 2026 and 2027, or the amount necessary to comply with the applicable minimum wage, whichever is greater.
Differentials for student workers:
- $2.00/hr for every hour worked before 6:00 a.m. or after 11:00 p.m.
- $1.00/hr requiring use of a language other than English.
- $4.00/hr for any hours worked during a weather emergency or when local or state government suggests people stay home for health reasons.