The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) is urging Philips Healthcare to finalize a first contract with 17 Field Service Engineers in San Diego. These engineers, who joined the IAM in late 2024, are responsible for maintaining and repairing hospital imaging and diagnostic equipment throughout San Diego and the Inland Empire.
Negotiations between the union’s bargaining committee and Philips began in January 2025. The IAM reports that Philips has not yet agreed to key terms on industry-standard wage structures, safety measures, or training commitments related to the upkeep of CT, MRI, X-ray, Ultrasound, and other critical systems used in hospitals and clinics.
Field Service Engineers are asking for pay increases that reflect their technical expertise as well as improved compensation for overnight shifts and emergency call-outs. They are also seeking paid training opportunities, better safety protections on the job, more predictable schedules, and fair reimbursement for work-related travel. The union states these changes would help prevent staff burnout while supporting essential medical infrastructure.
Union leaders say ongoing delays at the bargaining table have increased workplace uncertainty among this group of healthcare workers.
“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 IAM says it will continue raising awareness about what it calls a protracted process to secure a first agreement nearly one year after negotiations started.
“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 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents approximately 600,000 members across multiple industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, transit systems such as railroads and automotive manufacturing sectors throughout North America.
