MOST CONTRACTORS OFFER HEALTH, RETIREMENT PLANS

The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), has compiled the results of its Technician Compensation Survey on how contractors compensate these vital employees. Over 350 contractors across the nation participated in the survey. According to the results, most contractors (93%) provide health insurance, paid holiday, and vacation benefits. 8 out of 10 contractors provide some form of retirement plan, and from there the percentage of benefits reduced steadily. 45% of respondents offer sick leave; 34% offer short-term disability benefits; and 25% provide long-term disability. Half the respondents require technicians to contribute toward the cost of health and dental benefits. Furthermore, across the United States, base technician compensation fell in the $35-45,000 range. 20% of the respondents offered base pay in the $45-55,000 range. However, compensation differed significantly by region, with contractors in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic offering the highest average compensation. It was also calculated that over 5 out of 10 participating companies make 10% employer contributions to their technicians’ 401(k) retirement plans, while 13% make no contributions at all. The full detailed results, including information on bonuses, overtime and the complete array of benefits offered, were sent via email to all ACCA members who participated in the survey. Members who did not participate in the survey may purchase it for $45 online at www.acca.org/store (select the “Products for Members Only” category). The analysis is not available to non-members. For more information, contact Hilary Atkins at [email protected] or (703) 824-8855.