Federal wage floor set for Alaska construction trades on federally funded projects

The U.S. Department of Labor set legally required minimum wages for dozens of Alaska construction trades on May 18, covering federally funded building and heavy construction projects across the state's listed boroughs and census areas.

Modification 1 to General Decision AK20260001 applies statewide, reaching every major borough and census area. Any contractor bidding on or performing covered federal work must pay at least these rates as of the May 18, 2026, modification date. Federal Davis-Bacon requirements apply to covered contracts valued at $2,000 or more.

Working divers command the highest base rate on the schedule at $92.83 per hour, with an additional depth pay premium of $2.00 per foot below 101 feet. Line-construction cable splicers earn $74.34 base. Elevator mechanics receive $71.44 base, sprinkler fitters $60.67, boilermakers $58.33, and electricians $55.44. Fringe benefits add substantially to each rate. Tunnel workers in equipment operator classifications receive a 10 percent premium on their base rate.

Contractors on covered projects must also provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked under Executive Order 13706, up to 56 hours annually. For contracts subject to Executive Order 13658, contractors must pay all covered workers at least $13.65 per hour for work performed from May 11, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2026, or the applicable wage rate listed in the determination if higher.

Contractors or workers who wish to challenge a wage determination may submit requests to the WHD Branch of Wage Surveys for survey-related matters or to the Branch of Construction Wage Determinations for conformance decisions. If an initial decision is unfavorable, parties may seek reconsideration from the Wage and Hour Administrator and, if still unresolved, appeal to the Administrative Review Board.

State and Federal Schedules

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development maintains a separate state schedule governing state and local public construction contracts. The two schedules operate independently. Workers or contractors who dispute a rate or classification have a formal appeals path through the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division. The Alaska Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Administration can be reached at (907) 269-4900 for questions about the state schedule.