How does the calculator handle overtime?

Hours above the overtime threshold are multiplied by the overtime rate. The default is time-and-a-half after 40 hours, but both fields are editable.

Is per diem the same as hourly wage?

No. The calculator keeps per diem separate from wage. Per-diem eligibility, days paid, and tax treatment depend on the written package and your circumstances.

What does cash after travel costs mean?

It subtracts only the weekly lodging and travel-home costs you enter. It is still before taxes, meals, benefits, tools, local transportation, and other deductions.

Texas data-center trades pilot

What does this call actually pay?

Put the wage, overtime schedule, per diem, lodging, and trips home into one weekly number. The calculator keeps wage and per diem separate, because a $42/hr call is not a $42/hr decision.

Run the package How source verification works

Offer inputs

Example values are loaded. Replace every number with the call sheet or recruiter's written package.

Base wage$/hrHours each weekOvertime starts afterhrsOvertime multiplier×Per diem$/dayPer-diem days paiddaysYour weekly lodging$/wkTravel-home cost$/wkExpected project lengthweeks

Decision math

Wage and per diem separated

Weekly wage gross

$2,940

Weekly per diem

$875

Total weekly package

$3,815

After lodging + trips home

$3,390

Effective rate after travel costs

$56.50/hr

26-week package

$99,190

Weekly breakdown

40 regular hours: $1,680
20 overtime hours at 1.5×: $1,260
7 per-diem days: $875
Lodging: -$350
Trips home: -$75
Cash before taxes, meals, and deductions: $3,390

This is offer-comparison math, not tax advice. Per diem is not wage, may require eligibility, and may be paid only on qualifying days. Confirm the written overtime rule, schedule, and per-diem terms.

Read the whole call

The rate is only the first line

Confirm who pays per diem, which days qualify, whether overtime is reliable, how long the project phase lasts, and whether the listed contractor is the actual hiring entity.

Drug and background checks, state licensing, union-book status, gate time, shift differential, tools, parking, and project-end timing can change whether the higher headline package is the better job.

Trades pay FAQs

How does the calculator handle overtime?: Hours above the overtime threshold are multiplied by the overtime rate. The default is time-and-a-half after 40 hours, but both fields are editable.
Is per diem the same as hourly wage?: No. The calculator keeps per diem separate from wage. Per-diem eligibility, days paid, and tax treatment depend on the written package and your circumstances.
What does cash after travel costs mean?: It subtracts only the weekly lodging and travel-home costs you enter. It is still before taxes, meals, benefits, tools, local transportation, and other deductions.