The University of California presented a comprehensive economic package for medical residents and fellows as part of ongoing negotiations with the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR-SEIU). The proposal reflects UC’s commitment to fair, consistent compensation while supporting patient care and clinical training across its health system.
CIR-SEIU represents approximately 6,300 medical residents and fellows across the UC system who provide essential patient care while completing advanced medical training at UC hospitals and medical centers.
Medical residents are physicians in training who work in demanding clinical settings while continuing their education. UC residents remain among the highest-paid trainees at public universities nationwide and receive a strong overall compensation and benefits package.
“Medical residents are essential to both patient care and the future of medicine,” said Missy Matella, Associate Vice President for Systemwide Employee and Labor Relations at the University of California. “This proposal reflects our commitment to supporting their education and training while providing competitive, predictable pay.”
UC’s proposal, presented during bargaining sessions held March 17–18, is designed to provide steady salary growth over a four-year period.
The proposal includes:
- Annual salary increases of 3.5%
- Additional yearly step increases to provide consistent earnings growth
Negotiations continue to move forward. UC presented 23 proposals during recent sessions, and the parties have reached seven tentative agreements, including one on Labor Management Meetings.
The parties also exchanged proposals on key issues, including Immigration Side Letter, Educational Fund, Fatigue Mitigation, Housing Allowance, License Reimbursement & Required Training, and Health and Safety. Residents also shared perspectives on workload, fatigue and safety, which remain central to discussions.
Existing location-based contracts for medical residents expire June 30, 2026, as the parties work toward a single systemwide agreement. The next bargaining session is scheduled virtually for April 1.
UC remains committed to reaching an agreement that supports medical residents while maintaining the quality of care and training across its health system.