The Lineman Got $63 an Hour. The Utility Was Billed $319 an Hour.

[residentcynic]

11. Yeah, $319 may be high, but...

Is the $63/hr straight time? If so, then OT costs for this employee would be 1.5x to 2x that. Does the employer pay SS and FICA on these employees? Add another 10%. Is the employer paying for their room and board while on the job? Is that covered by the $319? The employer has to advertise for employees in trade mags and pay for whatever vetting process they use. More employer cost. The employer has administrative cost (payroll, records, etc.) that are covered in the $319/hr they bill. It's not like the is making pure profit on every dollar over $319. We Dems need to focus on real issues (and there is no shortage) rather than try to make something that isn't that different than what outside firms who supply consultants, contractors or any temporary skilled workers charge, even in the USA. Flame away.