MIT Facilities Workers Authorize Strike Amid Labor Disputes

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, November 1, 2026

About 600 facilities workers at MIT, represented by the 32BJ SEIU union, have authorized a strike amid stalled contract talks seeking higher wages, lower health premiums, and better protections for immigrant staff. This labor dispute emerges as MIT’s endowment increased by over 10% last year, raising concerns about financial priorities and the potential impact on campus operations.

Employees at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are preparing for potential labor strikes as contract negotiations with two key worker groups remain unresolved. On Tuesday, approximately 600 facilities workers represented by the 32BJ SEIU union voted to authorize a strike, following a recent approval of a walkout by the institute’s Graduate Student Union.

The 32BJ SEIU union includes custodians, desk attendants, groundskeepers, and other staff who have been working without a contract since July. The union is seeking a living wage increase, lower health care premiums, and enhanced protections and resources for immigrant employees. Union leaders criticized the institute for not adequately recognizing the contributions of their members. James Bradford, the union’s chief steward and an electrician with ten years at MIT, emphasized the essential role of facilities workers in maintaining the campus environment for students and staff.

Union officials highlighted concerns about recent cost increases. According to their statements, MIT recently imposed an 11 percent rise in health insurance premiums. In contrast, the institute's latest contract offer included a 2.2 percent wage increase for a one-year term. The union argues that a longer contract spanning three years, with wages adjusted for inflation, is a standard expectation. Members of the union report financial strain due to rising living costs, with some holding multiple jobs to cover expenses.

The labor tensions coincide with news that MIT’s endowment grew by over 10 percent last year, reaching $29.2 billion. However, an MIT spokesperson underscored the financial challenges facing the institute, including an uncertain federal funding landscape. The spokesperson added that the administration has adopted a cautious approach to budgeting and hiring. They noted that MIT’s bargaining team is committed to reaching agreements that are fair and acknowledge the efforts of all employees.

The timing and duration of any potential strikes have not been disclosed, but the developments signal escalating labor disputes that could affect campus operations in the near future.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.