Dispatcher’s direct line

206.900.7822

Calling the direct line is the fastest way to get your name on the Out of Work List. You can leave a message with your information.

We have shifted to a new database that includes an online portal for members. This will give you the ability to put your name on and to take your name off the OWL (out of work list). (opcmia528.unionimpact.com). Sign up now using the link below:

To gain employment through the Local, your name and current phone number must be on the Out of Work List. 

Going to Work:  Work orders are filled from the names listed on the Out-of-Work List, beginning at the top and working down the list.  Call (206) 900-7822, Speak clearly, giving your name, current phone number and status (Cement Masons or Plasterer…Journeyman or Apprentice), to place your name on the Out-Of-Work List online see the button above.

Unemployment: Local 528 is recognized by the Washington State Employment Security Department as a full referral hiring union.  Membership in this union generally meets the work search requirements for eligibility of unemployment benefits.  Verification from the Union that a member is eligible for dispatch under Union rules is required. Failure to be available for, or refusal of a dispatch, can result in questions of eligibility for unemployment benefits.

You must be ready, able and willing to immediately accept any suitable work offer, be in good standing with the Union and do whatever the Union requires to be referred to work.

Dispatch Rules

1.     Journeyman Cement Masons are not allowed to solicit work. 

2.     APPRENTICES ARE ENCOURAGED TO SOLICIT THEIR OWN WORK.

3.     If you do not answer your phone on two successive occasions when you are called for dispatch, whether or not we leave a message, your name will be removed from the Out of Work list. *If you are seeking employment, you must first put your name on the Out-of-Work list.

4.     If you refuse a dispatch, your name will immediately go to the bottom of the hiring list and you shall be denied the right of immediate dispatch.

5.     Your name will be dropped from the list for failure to check in within 9 days of placing your name on the list. (Checking in once a week is a lot easier to remember - every Monday or Friday, for example.)

6. If you return to work YOU MUST remove your name from the Out of Work List.

7.     Always carry proper identification to work - your valid Social Security card and your valid Washington State driver's license, ID or passport.

8.     Be ready to be dispatched to work. Dispatch starts at 4:00 am. Have a pen and paper by your phone and be ready to take the dispatch.

9.     If you accept a dispatch that is described as a “Drug Tested Job”, and you refuse to take the drug test, you will be automatically fined $100.00. (Est. 9/7/2021) Most jobs require a Clean Card or drug test. It is to your benefit to get a Clean Card and be able to test clean at all times.

10.    A member will be fined $100.00 for every “NO CALL - NO SHOW”, per dispatch rules. (Est. 9/7/2021) *

Disclaimer: While the dispatch process adheres to the above rules to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all members, the
dispatcher retains the discretion to fill job assignments based on specific job requirements, member qualifications, and project needs.

Jurisdiction
OP&CMIA Local #528 is a full service Local that represents Washington in the majority of the western counties. It also extends to some portions of the eastern counties for the Plasterers. Plasterers Local 77 was merged with Local 528 in December of 2005. All officers of the Local have worked within our trade.  The term “full service” means the Local coordinates the joint efforts of its staff to represent our members, promote training and organize within our industry. Under these broad headings are included many services to the membership, including, but not limited to, contract negotiations, contract enforcement, advanced training and certifications, guaranteed wage and benefit levels and guarding our work and jurisdiction.

QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL CONDITIONS?

For members traveling outside of the “free zone” here are the Per Diem guidelines per our CBA.

SCHEDULE “C” TRAVEL CONDITIONS - SECTION 2. Daily travel remuneration shall be paid on jobs located outside of the free zone computed from the City Hall of the following listed cities: Everett, Seattle, Tacoma or the employee’s residence. Effective - Contract Renewal 0 to 35 radius miles Free Greater than 35 to 45 radius miles $15.00 Greater than 45 to 55 radius miles $20.00 Greater than 55 to 70 radius miles $35.00 Greater than a 70-mile radius $65.00

IF YOU ARE WORKING OUTSIDE OF OUR CBA’S JURISDICTION CONTACT A BUSINESS AGENT

Travel & Reciprocity

Why You Need to Know This

As a Local 528 member, you may have opportunities to work outside Local 528’s jurisdiction. When that happens, there are steps you need to take before starting work. Following the proper travel and reciprocity process helps keep your union membership and benefit contributions properly connected while you are working in another Local’s jurisdiction.

Traveling Outside Local 528’s Jurisdiction

If you are going to work in another OPCMIA Local’s jurisdiction, contact Local 528 before you go and request a travel card. You must be in good standing to receive a travel card. Once you arrive, check in with the Local Union that has jurisdiction over the area and deposit your travel card before starting work. Travel cards must be deposited within 30 days of being issued.

Simple rule: Before you travel, call Local 528. Before you work, check in with the Local where the job is located.

Reciprocity

Reciprocity is the process that helps your benefit contributions follow you when you work outside your home Local’s jurisdiction. Because benefit arrangements can vary by area, make sure you complete any required reciprocity paperwork and verify where your contributions are being sent. Your travel card handles your union status while traveling, while reciprocity addresses the benefit side of working away from home.

The constitutions specifically explain the travel-card process, including that a traveling member continues paying monthly dues to the home Local while working dues and assessments are paid to the sister Local under the International Constitution. The documents provided do not spell out the detailed benefit-fund reciprocity procedure, so I would keep this section general rather than promising that benefits automatically transfer.

When in doubt, contact Local 528 before accepting or starting work outside our jurisdiction.