[sharkmerry]

>>On a per hour basis, my current job pays 95% of the non-union position, but the main difference is 7.5 hours vs. 8 hours a day. That means my yearly salary is more like 87%.

Over your career, doesnt getting raises matter more than immediately more money that will never increase? and without a union could be ended at anytime.

Over a 25 year career, assuming 3% raises, you make 30% more. Plus you worked 3125 hours less.