Boeing Prepares for Possible Strike with Contractor Hiring in Seattle

Boeing has begun posting contractor positions for engineering and technical work at its commercial airplane division in Seattle, as labor talks between the company and union members enter a more confrontational phase. The move comes after union members rejected Boeing's contract offer, and with the current agreement set to expire on October 6.

The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) has approximately 17,000 engineers and technical workers who could go on strike if a new agreement is not reached. A work stoppage by these employees could further delay certification of Boeing's already-late 737 MAX 10 and 777-9 jets.

Boeing's last two major union contract negotiations resulted in extended strikes, including a seven-week walkout in 2024 and a 101-day strike in 2025. The company has declined to comment directly on the job postings, but a spokesperson emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement before the deadline while protecting business continuity and supporting customers.

Bryan Corliss, a SPEEA spokesman, stated that the union remains hopeful for a new four-year contract and avoided strike, but criticized Boeing's apparent effort to line up replacement labor. He noted that a strike by SPEEA members could undermine progress made in addressing production quality and safety issues at Boeing.