Waterworks lab pay study and senior staff retention
Summary
Water quality staff at Milwaukee Waterworks worry the new pay study won't credit their years of service and certifications, risking a 20 percent turnover rate among the scientists who keep the city's drinking water safe. The board approved the study but asked the Department of Employee Relations to address the matrix placement concerns.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 1
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 5, 2026.
Impact analysis
Pay matrix credits could add up to roughly 15-20 percent to senior water quality employees' placement in new pay ranges; no cost estimate was provided.
If adopted, the credits would benefit the 22 water quality employees, especially the three veterans with over 20 years of service.
Without action, senior staff may keep leaving for MMSD or private-sector jobs, and newer staff lose experienced mentors.
Mentions & discussions (1)
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