Administrative and clerical workers represented by Teamsters Local 2010 went on strike Tuesday near UC San Diego hospitals in Hillcrest and La Jolla, reports The San Diego Union-Tribune.
The strike is part of a systemwide work stoppage for the University of California.
According to the report, the union contends workers' wages have not kept up with inflation, citing a 2016 study from Occidental College. The study was conducted in conjunction with the Teamsters unit and indicates "more than two-thirds of UC's clerical, administrative and support workers struggle to put adequate food on the table."
However, the university, which is still bargaining with the Teamsters, said it is offering clerical employees "guaranteed, market-competitive wage increases, good benefits and stability."
"UC's offer carries an average pay raise of 18 percent over the next six years as well as excellent healthcare benefits and retirement options, including a traditional pension plan that very few other employers offer," the university added in a statement.
The university also said clerical employees earn an annual average salary of $47,300 — more than the state average of roughly $39,200 for clerical workers.
"The proposed wage increases ensure that pay for clerical staff stays market-competitive, and they are consistent with increases given to other UC represented and non-represented employees," the university added. "We believe our proposals fairly recognize the skills and contributions of our clerical staff."
Additionally, the university contends a strike is counterproductive to negotiations and urges the union "to finalize a new contract without further delay."
The university said there has been no disruption to care due to the strike, and all clinics and hospitals are open.
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