Apple's Security Contractors are about to Become Employees

Apple has decided to transition its on-site contract security force into company employees at key Silicon Valley locations. Apple's decision follows a similar move by Google last October, and is being praised by local union representatives as a positive economic change.

Apple to turn contract security workers into its own employeesApple to turn contract security workers into its own employees

David Huerta, President of SEIU United Service Workers West, the union that represents Silicon Valley contract security workers, said in a statement,

We welcome Apple's decision to take responsibility for the women and men who protect its campus. This decision is a victory for Silicon Valley security officers who are rising up to fix the imbalance in our economy by securing dignified, full-time work and respect on the job.

He added that tech companies can help improve the area through example by creating jobs for service workers such as security, janitors, and bus drivers, instead of using contract companies.

Apple hasn't officially commented on why it decided to bring contract security jobs in house, although it does follow a months-long study of its security program.

The policy change will likely be a nice improvement for Apple's soon-to-be on-staff security force since they'll get company benefits and could see pay raises, too. It will also make it easier for those workers to get by in Silicon Valley where extensive gentrification has pushed housing prices above affordable levels for many people.

Apple hasn't said how soon it'll start transitioning contract security staff to its own payroll, or how many workers will make the cut. Presumably, the company's security force will start picking up their official Apple badges soon.