How do you pay journey-level workers on a public works job?

How do you pay journey-level workers on a public works job?

• A. No less than the prevailing wage
• B. At the contractor's discretion
• C. At minimum wage
• D. Only overtime pay

Answer: (A)

Public works projects require payment of a prevailing wage to journey-level workers for the specific craft on that job. Prevailing wage is the rate set by the state (through the Department of Industrial Relations) for that trade and location, and it often includes required benefits or an equivalent cash in lieu. The important point is that workers must be paid no less than this rate, not based on the contractor’s personal discretion or just the minimum wage. Overtime rules still apply separately, but the foundation is that the standard pay for hours worked on the project meets or exceeds the prevailing wage for that craft.

Public works projects require payment of a prevailing wage to journey-level workers for the specific craft on that job. Prevailing wage is the rate set by the state (through the Department of Industrial Relations) for that trade and location, and it often includes required benefits or an equivalent cash in lieu. The important point is that workers must be paid no less than this rate, not based on the contractor’s personal discretion or just the minimum wage. Overtime rules still apply separately, but the foundation is that the standard pay for hours worked on the project meets or exceeds the prevailing wage for that craft.