New job

I've been working for the Nova Scotia DOT for a bit over 7yrs now at their main mechanical branch about a 1/2hr commute from home. The last 2yrs I was the chargehand in the main shop, like a working Foreman. In February a mobile base mechanic job opened up at the DOT base 7km's from our home. The mobile's all make close to $20k a year more than the shop mechanics because of all the OT in the winter. I asked for a shot to try it out along with a buddy of mine who also wanted a mobile job. I had seniority on him so I got to try it first for a month. My first day we got 2ft of snow and 2 days later we got another 16" LOL...Talk about baptism by blizzard! I got a taste of it, it can be rough at times but the money is good so I applied for and got the job 3 permanently weeks ago. My buddy ended up getting one at the base closest to his house so it worked out for both of us. Your on call 24-7 from Nov 1 to May 1 and you get to take your truck home every day during that period. Summers are great, 7am-3:30pm M-F. I have 7 dump/plow trucks, road grader, loader, big farm tractor, 8 half tons/1-tons and some small gear that I'm responsible for. The warden was after me to make more money so she got her wish LOL...I won't be home much in the winter so she will be spending more time at the Hockey rink then she realizes but the old man will help out too if I'm working. I pick when I work OT and how much unless break downs dictate it. I see a lot of long double OT Sunday's and double OT plus 8hr holidays in my future. Mo' racing money!!!

I've been there daily since May, I love it. Good bunch of guys, close to home and I can just put my head down and work without the peanut gallery or union slackers bullshit at the other shop.

congrats on new gig

more money and being happy are 2 good things

More money is always a good thing.

My hourly rate is up $1.24 but the OT is where you make the most. No matter how many hours I work I'll feel better on pay day LOL

Congrats on the new gig. Nothing wrong with bettering yourself and doing what's right for your family (and checkbook).

I've been sniffing around to see what else is out there for me as well. I feel like my current job is holding me back...

My oldest one is 12, the twins are 9 next month...I can't make enough money to keep up with their sports and grocery bill ...In 6 yrs my oldest will be headed for University so there was no real option  - I need to make more money. I don't mind working long hours and I can sleep for a long time when I'm dead.