Seniority is an important part of being a Union member. Your seniority is usually based on your hire date – and sometimes it can come down to the minute you were hired too.
Most often, seniority relates to job postings, overtime, and layoffs. Employees with more seniority – and the ability to perform a job – who apply to job openings at the workplace should receive those jobs. Often, overtime will be offered by seniority as well. Layoffs generally happen by reverse seniority. It can also play a role in vacation requests.
Each collective agreement will detail how and when your seniority is determined and how seniority affects different parts of your working life. So, familiarize yourself with what seniority means at your workplace and if you have any questions or concerns, speak to your Union Steward or contact your Union Rep.