The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) has called on Philips Healthcare to finalize a first contract with 17 Field Service Engineers in San Diego. The engineers, who voted to join the IAM in Fall 2024, are responsible for maintaining hospital imaging and diagnostic systems in San Diego and the Inland Empire.
Negotiations between the bargaining committee and Philips have been ongoing since January 2025. According to the union, Philips has resisted agreeing to industry-standard wage structures, safety measures, and training commitments for engineers servicing CT, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, and other equipment.
The engineers are seeking higher pay that reflects their technical skills, better compensation for overnight and emergency work, paid training opportunities, improved safety protections, predictable schedules, and fair reimbursement for job-related travel. The union argues these changes are necessary to prevent staff burnout and maintain safe operations of critical hospital imaging systems.
IAM leaders expressed concern that slow progress at the negotiating table is creating tension within an essential workforce. “These engineers are the invisible backbone of our healthcare system,” said IAM Union Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “Without them, hospitals cannot diagnose strokes, detect cancers, or deliver timely emergency care. Philips must recognize their skill, respect their critical role, and negotiate a contract that protects both workers and patients.”
The union stated it will continue efforts to raise awareness about the delay in reaching a contract after nearly a year of talks. “Philips has the opportunity right now to be a leader in patient safety, worker retention, and healthcare quality,” said IAM Union District 725 Assistant Directing Business Representative Justin Mauldin. “We are urging the company to come to the table with real solutions so these workers can continue performing their life-saving roles without being stretched thin.”
The IAM represents about 600,000 active and retired members across several industries throughout North America.
