The University of California has negotiated an agreement with the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE) union over 2001-02 salary increases for its technical employees and research support professionals. Both the University and UPTE have ratified the agreement.

"Our technical employees and research support professionals play a vital role at UC and we are pleased to have reached agreement with UPTE regarding salaries," said Judith W. Boyette, UC associate vice president for human resources and benefits.

Step-based employees as well as employees in open ranges with satisfactory or better performance ratings will receive 2% general range adjustments. All increases are to be effective October 1, 2001. In order to be eligible for the increases, an employee must be in the bargaining unit on October 1, 2001 and on the date of ratification by both parties. In addition, employees receiving merit increases must be career, non-probationary on October 1, 2001.

Because of the recent economic downturn and resulting decline in state revenues, UC received significantly reduced state funding for 2001-02 staff salary programs. The university remains committed to providing all its employees with the best possible employment terms and intends to continue to pursue diligently with state leaders increased salary funding.

There are approximately 4,000 technical employees and approximately 3800 research support professionals working in a vast array of jobs throughout UC's ten campuses, five medical centers and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Technical employees include lab assistants, computer resource specialists, animal technicians, animal health technicians, electronics technicians, writers, editors, artists, computer operators and firefighters. Research support professionals include staff research associates, marine technicians, museum scientists, research associates and other titles.

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