SMRT to roll out revised wage system for non—executive staff

SINGAPORE: Public Transport Operator SMRT has unveiled its wage review for all non—executive staff of its trains and bus operations and corporate office staff.

SMRT signed a revised Collective Agreement with the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) on Thursday.

Under the new framework is a monthly Productivity and Performance Incentive that directly links to staff performance in three areas — operational performance and productivity, safety regulations and customer experience.

SMRT said the wage revision takes effect from March 2013 and features enhancements to the remuneration packages of all SMRT’s non—executive staff except Bus Captains.

SMRT said its Bus Captains had received a salary enhancement package last year.

Under the revised wage system, staff can expect an increase in basic salaries, a Monthly Performance and Productivity Incentive component, an increase in salary ranges of existing staff, a one—off Market Adjustment Component, and an upward adjustment to the starting salaries of new non—executive staff.

All SMRT Bus Captains on permanent contracts are currently on two schemes. From April 2013, they will be emplaced in a single Bus Captain scheme.

SMRT said all Bus Captains will be developed, assessed, incentivised and promoted based on a common set of performance indicators and competency levels.

All Bus Captains will enjoy incentives that measure their operational performance and productivity, as well as adherence to schedule, service and safety standards.

Bus Captains from China who are under two—year contracts will also receive the same performance incentives, an Annual Wage Supplement and a year—end variable bonus annually, in place of their current ex—gratia and sign—on bonus.

The revised Collective Agreement also includes an Enhanced Career Progression Framework, which among other things will allow steady career progression based on individual performance.

— CNA/ck