CNS, Pantex Plant union reach collective bargaining agreement

The Pantex Plant said in a statement this week that a collective bargaining agreement has been reached between Consolidated Nuclear Security LLC (CNS) and the West Texas Building Trades and Construction Council (WTBTCC).

The agreement consists of a new contract that runs through Feb. 10, 2019.

CNS serves as the management and operations entity for both the Y-12 National Security Complex and the Pantex Plant, the latter of which is based in Amarillo, Texas. Both of these facilities are tasked with maintenance and operations associated with the U.S. nuclear weapons arsenal. The Pantex Plant manages the nation's nuclear stockpile, specializing in development testing, life-extension programs, nuclear weapons assembly and dismantling, and the manufacture of explosive components. The facility also manages plutonium supplies.

CNS said the deal offers workers stability and that the WTBTCC membership has a crucial role in national security, the Pantex Plant said.

CNS is made up of member companies that include Lockheed Martin, Bechtel National Inc., SOC and Orbital ATK.

The Y-12 National Security Complex, based in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is primarily responsible for the storage and surveillance of uranium materials, along with processing and manufacturing operations.