Teamster

Play as a Team: Careers as a Teamster in Houston TX

Teamsters are members of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, one of the largest and most diverse labor unions in the United States. The Package Division is the union's largest division, serving hundreds of thousands of members throughout North America. UPS is the single largest employer in the Teamsters Union. The division is responsible for ensuring that management abides by the UPS Master Agreement. The UPS contract is the largest private collective bargaining agreement in North America. The division represents UPS package car drivers, air drivers, feeder drivers, part-time loaders, unloaders, sorters, clerks and mechanics. Read more here.

What Does a Teamster Do?

The term "Teamster" historically referred to a person who drove a team of draft animals to haul goods, but today, it broadly represents workers in various industries, particularly those involved in transportation and logistics. Teamsters play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth movement of goods and services across the country. In Houston and the Gulf Coast region, Teamsters are involved in:

• Transportation: Operating trucks, delivery vehicles, and other transportation equipment to move goods from manufacturers to warehouses, retailers, and consumers. This includes long-haul trucking, local delivery, and freight distribution.
• Warehouse Operations: Working in warehouses to manage the storage, handling, and distribution of goods. This includes tasks such as loading and unloading trucks, organizing inventory, and operating forklifts and other material-handling equipment.
• Public Services: Many Teamsters work in public sectors, including roles such as sanitation workers, bus drivers, and other positions that support municipal services.
• Construction and Industrial Work: Some Teamsters operate heavy equipment and support construction projects, including those in the oil and gas sector.

Training and Apprenticeships through Teamsters Local 988

Teamsters Local 988, based in Houston, provides training and support to its members across various industries. While the specific training required can vary depending on the job, common aspects include:

• Driver Training: For those involved in transportation, training often includes obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which is required to operate large trucks and buses. This training covers vehicle operation, safety protocols, and regulations related to transporting goods.
• Equipment Operation: Training on the use of forklifts, pallet jacks, and other warehouse equipment is provided for those working in logistics and warehousing.
• Safety Training: Emphasis on safety practices, including OSHA regulations, safe driving techniques, proper handling of hazardous materials, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Union Education: Understanding the rights and responsibilities of being a union member, as well as learning about collective bargaining, workplace rights, and labor laws.
• On-the-Job Training: Many roles offer on-the-job training, where new team members learn specific skills and responsibilities directly from experienced workers.

The training provided by Local 988 ensures that Teamsters are well-prepared for their roles and equipped to handle the challenges of their specific jobs. This training is often ongoing, with opportunities for members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Career Opportunities in Houston and the Gulf Coast

The Houston area and the Gulf Coast region offer a wide range of career opportunities for Teamsters, reflecting the area's diverse economy. Key career paths include:

• Trucking and Transportation: Houston is a major logistics hub, with opportunities for long-haul truck drivers, local delivery drivers, and those involved in freight and package delivery.
• Warehouse and Distribution: Working in large distribution centers and warehouses, managing the flow of goods, and ensuring efficient operations.
• Public Sector Jobs: Teamsters in the public sector can find opportunities as bus drivers, sanitation workers, and other municipal service roles.
• Construction and Industrial Roles: Opportunities in the construction industry, particularly in Houston's booming construction sector and the surrounding Gulf Coast's oil and gas industry. This includes operating heavy equipment, transporting materials, and supporting large-scale projects.

Why Pursue a Career as a Teamster in Houston?

Several reasons make a career as a Teamster in Houston attractive:

1. Job Security: Houston's thriving economy and strategic importance as a logistics hub ensure a steady demand for skilled Teamsters across various industries.
2. Competitive Wages and Benefits: Teamsters often receive good pay, health benefits, retirement plans, and other union-negotiated benefits.
3. Career Growth: The training and support provided by Local 988 offer opportunities for career advancement, whether through specialized training, obtaining additional certifications, or moving into supervisory roles.
4. Diverse Opportunities: The variety of industries represented by Teamsters in Houston means there are opportunities to find work that aligns with individual interests and skills.
5. Union Support: Being part of a union offers protection, advocacy, and a sense of solidarity, ensuring that workers' rights are upheld and their voices heard.

Being a Teamster in Houston offers a stable and rewarding career with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. The comprehensive training and support provided by Teamsters Local 988 prepare workers for success in a wide range of roles, making it a solid career choice in the dynamic Houston and Gulf Coast region.