KBR Salaries, Bonuses and Benefits.

btexas in Beaumont, Texas said: Hey kenk, I just received mine today.

btexas, see ya there!

Lee said, “just got request about three weeks ago and I waiting on a recuiter to contact me but I haven't heard any thing yet could you tell me how long it was before you guys heard something?”

I am not sure what you mean by request. You filled in application, posted it, got the first call from recruiter, did you do a conference call yet? And then the next step I believe is the background check. Its a process I believe, so if the ball has dropped at any point then you should call your recruiter. Specially if you are a skilled tradesman, cause they are really working to hire those right now.

Travelingman, thanks for the penal codes- I like the way you do your research. Good to know. As others have said, we wouldn’t want them to come over here and misbehave, so only understandable.

Madogg, Right now there seems to be a crunch to get skill trades over there, that’s why so many of the posts right now are from skilled tradesmen and or their loveones. I have read all the posts and further back there is mention that around the 1st of January or there after KBR does lots of hiring and I assume this will be in the arena of all fields. So just keep posting your resume.

JRP63 said, “Is there anyone here that could help in answering a few questions regarding working conditions, ie. office environment, living conditions, what camps in Iraq or Afganistan you would likely be working at, etc.”

If you read through all the posts of this thread over the last few mths you can pilfer a general sense of the working and living conditions over there. You can also try U tube or flickx for visuals–there are also a number of pvt web sites with info related to, you just have to weed out the bad to get to the good–as in informative and useful info.

Oops–forgive– meant to thank Operator for the penal codes.

JRP63 in Saint Paul, Minnesota said: Looking through most of the recent posts here there seems to be little information for those of us interested in working for KBR in an administrative-type role. Is there anyone here that could help in answering a few questions regarding working conditions, ie. office environment, living conditions, what camps in Iraq or Afganistan you would likely be working at, etc. This site has been very informative regarding what to expect in Houston, but I am having difficulty visualizing what a typical workday is like for an office worker...can anyone help with this? Thanks for your efforts!

Depends on what site you go to, every place is different. You could be working in a hard structure, a tent , a trailer,a wooden shack, etc. You will be sent wherever KBR HQ's decides to send you. They can tell you in Houston you're going to one camp, but once you get in country, it can change, which happens a lot of the time.I'm an administrative specialist at Base operations in Tikrit, and I work in a trailer that's been converted to offices. We work 12 hours a day 7A-7P, 12 hrs a week of mind numbing, brainless repetition, but it's easy work,and easy pay,and I can come and go as I please if I need to run errands.We live in trailers, one person rooms on each side and share a bathroom in the middle, but at some camps they stay in tents, or b huts, or barracks, like I said, every place is different.I'm at a very large camp so we have 3 gyms, 3 dfacs and 2 or 3 PX's, but other camps are smaller and don't have a lot of ammenities.There is a lot of dirt and mud and rocks, so I have to wear good boots most of the time.It's mainly work then go home and sleep for me anyway, there's not a lot of time for much else, hope this helps.

kiki78 in Atlanta, Georgia said: Depends on what site you go to, every place is different. You could be working in a hard structure, a tent , a trailer,a wooden shack, etc. You will be sent wherever KBR HQ's decides to send you. They can tell you in Houston you're going to one camp, but once you get in country, it can change, which happens a lot of the time.I'm an administrative specialist at Base operations in Tikrit, and I work in a trailer that's been converted to offices. We work 12 hours a day 7A-7P, 12 hrs a week of mind numbing, brainless repetition, but it's easy work,and easy pay,and I can come and go as I please if I need to run errands.We live in trailers, one person rooms on each side and share a bathroom in the middle, but at some camps they stay in tents, or b huts, or barracks, like I said, every place is different.I'm at a very large camp so we have 3 gyms, 3 dfacs and 2 or 3 PX's, but other camps are smaller and don't have a lot of ammenities.There is a lot of dirt and mud and rocks, so I have to wear good boots most of the time.It's mainly work then go home and sleep for me anyway, there's not a lot of time for much else, hope this helps.

Sorry, I meant 12 hrs a day 7 days a week :)

Debbie, Switch –ladies of the board. Thanks for the info related to the code book. We were wondering about this. He has the latest edition of 2005 –binder and is quite heavy. And of course this yr they came out with the 08 edition. Son is using this for his apprenticeship. And dh has been researching the British standards. I might have to see if I can get a lighter version of the code book for dh for travel. Does anyone know of other books that might be useful?

Wirenutts wife, wow three times and from the way I hear they are likely to change it again. Its made research this way difficult as trying to get a sense of each country–what with not knowing. I research, you understand, as it making “me” feel less in the dark–as in the fear of the unknown–and like I am doing something to help–so I do not feel helpless. Do those vacuum space saver bags really work? I was thinking we'd roll em up to stuff em in a duffle bag liek we did in the military days.

Jdcs wife, seems like deviating from any RR schedule is something he will want to discuss during processing in Houston, though they may go the route of having him refer to the in country project manager about it. I hope it works out for you, and understand your feelings about. Makes perfect sense.

Ok I am confused by the B sites. What exactly does this mean? Does it apply to smaller? And what is does CJOA stand for lostwithouthim?

I am off to check out the penal codes.

Every camp has a camp or FOB ( forward operating base) then they also have a site number. I still have not identified all the site numbers. Usually the site numbers indicate a group of camps in a general area. Example G sites are south of Baghdad, and C sites are in Tikrit area, B sites are in Al Asad area, H sites are in Mosul area.

Debbie

Thanks Debbie! Now I am beginning to understand.

Kiki, lots of great info. They do not allow you to leave the camp/post/base correct?

You are not allowed to leave the camps. For travel and change in job title you would be transported by military on a chopper or other military transport. Around Baghdad I beleive they allow people to visit the palace, etc. but again it is with military in control.

Debbie

Koko Wilson in Florida said: Debbie, Switch –ladies of the board. Thanks for the info related to the code book. We were wondering about this. He has the latest edition of 2005 –binder and is quite heavy. And of course this yr they came out with the 08 edition. Son is using this for his apprenticeship. And dh has been researching the British standards. I might have to see if I can get a lighter version of the code book for dh for travel. Does anyone know of other books that might be useful?

Wirenutts wife, wow three times and from the way I hear they are likely to change it again. Its made research this way difficult as trying to get a sense of each country–what with not knowing. I research, you understand, as it making “me” feel less in the dark–as in the fear of the unknown–and like I am doing something to help–so I do not feel helpless. Do those vacuum space saver bags really work? I was thinking we'd roll em up to stuff em in a duffle bag liek we did in the military days.

Jdcs wife, seems like deviating from any RR schedule is something he will want to discuss during processing in Houston, though they may go the route of having him refer to the in country project manager about it. I hope it works out for you, and understand your feelings about. Makes perfect sense.

Ok I am confused by the B sites. What exactly does this mean? Does it apply to smaller? And what is does CJOA stand for lostwithouthim?

I am off to check out the penal codes.

Hi anybody thats looking for a good guide to the new british standard for electricians this is the book.
It is a lighter version of the big book designed for use on the job.
You can find it on amazon.co.uk search for IEEE onsite guide.

KoKo

My husband bought the 2008 codebook yesterday...it is very heavy... Iwas joking with my hubby yesterday saying...'there goes your 40lbs+ of weight allowed"... :) of course its not 40 lbs but it sure feels like it... he will probably take it as carry on...

The space saver bags do work... we use them when we go on our summer vacations... they are great... I personally love them because I can pack alot and my husband still thinks Im packing light

and wirenutts wife said that as long as they do not go over on their weight limit then they dont have to open the bags and worry about them inflating again...

-JDCs wife ( is was too lazy to log my husband off and log myself in..)

Travelingman in Milton, Florida said: I'll be happy to put you in contact with a recruiter Ms. Sparkey.
Then you can make that decision for yourself. As for myself I have faith in the USA. When we lose that faith we all will be in trouble. I am willing to take those risks not for fast money, but to keep my home and provide for my family. Which I am currently unable to do in this economy. You might find a job on NBC or CNN, and if yopu don't like what I have too say well that makes us even, because I have yet to hear anything postive from you.

I was there for two years. I need don't need a recruiters name. I am trying to send you the truth so you will know what you are getting yourselves into BEFORE you go. If youthink KBR is going to tell you the truth you are wrong. Do youthink KBR is going to tell you just lost Diplomatic Immunity?

Ask KBR how many KBR employees are sitting in Sharjah and Dubai jail. They won't tell you that. This is muslim law, sharia law. Women could be arrested for not having their hair covered, for showing the bare skin in their arms and legs. This is NOT US law. There are no attorney's to represent you. You can't even speak the language. The next time someone tries to smuggle dinar or something else the Iraqi government deems illegal (which could change daily)....you're arrested in the airport and hauled off to...who the hell knows where?

KBR gets paid to get you there. They aren't going to tell you anything that is going to scare you.

US citizens working for the US Government and US Contractors claim diplomatic immunity in most countries. This is a big deal.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: Ask KBR how many KBR employees are sitting in Sharjah and Dubai jail. They won't tell you that. This is muslim law, sharia law. Women could be arrested for not having their hair covered, for showing the bare skin in their arms and legs. This is NOT US law. There are no attorney's to represent you. You can't even speak the language. The next time someone tries to smuggle dinar or something else the Iraqi government deems illegal (which could change daily)....you're arrested in the airport and hauled off to...who the hell knows where?

KBR gets paid to get you there. They aren't going to tell you anything that is going to scare you.

US citizens working for the US Government and US Contractors claim diplomatic immunity in most countries. This is a big deal.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

Why do you care so much about what others are getting into.. what's it to you?? who did you piss off that you had such a bad experience with them???

Like someone mentioned earlier...this is supposed to be support forum... We are not naive about the possible situation that we will be in... We know very well of the risks involved..

Like I said...who did you piss off??

Travelingman in Milton, Florida said: Debbie where is your other half? What base? Recruiter called tonight and said B-1-A is Al Asad. That's where I'm going first anyway

Hey Travelingman, I have also been told that I am going to Al Asad! At this point anyway... If all goes well should be in Houston on the 8th of Dec. can't wait to get started!!!
This site is amazing and all you wives are wonderful... keep up the great work.
Thank You!

jdc_ in riverside, California said: Why do you care so much about what others are getting into.. what's it to you?? who did you piss off that you had such a bad experience with them???

Like someone mentioned earlier...this is supposed to be support forum... We are not naive about the possible situation that we will be in... We know very well of the risks involved..

Like I said...who did you piss off??

Why do I care?? Because you're Americans. The way KBR treats it's people in the Middle East is illegal in the States. Plain and simple. Don't go over there thinking you have any rights. Especially if you are injured or contract a disease. You won't even be working for KBR when you get there.

As long as you know all this. Then you are going over with eyes wide open. Our troops still need people to take care of them. And until KBR loses the contract you will most likely have to work for them to do that.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: Ask KBR how many KBR employees are sitting in Sharjah and Dubai jail. They won't tell you that. This is muslim law, sharia law. Women could be arrested for not having their hair covered, for showing the bare skin in their arms and legs. This is NOT US law. There are no attorney's to represent you. You can't even speak the language. The next time someone tries to smuggle dinar or something else the Iraqi government deems illegal (which could change daily)....you're arrested in the airport and hauled off to...who the hell knows where?

KBR gets paid to get you there. They aren't going to tell you anything that is going to scare you.

US citizens working for the US Government and US Contractors claim diplomatic immunity in most countries. This is a big deal.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

Most people who get caught up in Dubai do so because they are doing ignorant things. Most times contractors are over there getting drunk and causing disturbences in the local bars and on the streets. As far as "smuggling" Iraqi Dinar, most contractors aren't dumb enough to actually try to take it through the airport because the Iraqi government has made it well known that it is illegal to take the dinar back to the States and KBR briefs EVERYONE going in and out of Theatre about this.
Now, granted, I do agree that this is a big deal, but only to the people who choose to break the law. It is the same in the states, break the law, go to jail. Its that simple.
I agree with jdc in that you seem to have really had a bad experience with KBR for whatever reason. In any company you will always have those employees who are unhappy. It seems that you were unfortunate enough to have been one of them, but for you to come on this forum always bringing out the negative, I think that is just plain wrong. As I have stated before, the visitors to this forum come here for support and information. Lets try to remain positive

Thank you Kiki78,Koko and Debbie the info you have provided...it has really helped me to put a good picture together. A few more questions if you don't mind my asking: here in the states we rely on our PC's for so much, ie. communication, entertainment, bill paying, etc. Would it be beneficial to bring my notebook along or is it not worth the effort (and weight)?
Kiki...are you in Tikrit now or on R&R as I see you have internet access. You also mentioned footwear...any suggestions for what a man should bring who does not work in the trades? My thoughts are to bring "Polo-type" shirts, a few Tee's, workboots and khaki pants as well as some warm weather clothing...sound about right for am admin-type or should I be bringing long and short sleeve dress shirts, tie and loafers too?
Sorry this is getting so long, but one more important item: What about snail mail? How do I forward mail to an APO address if one does not know what address to forward it to? I am single but could possibly send mail to a relative for a short time, I guess. Any suggestions on what works best in this situation?
Again, many thanks to all you wonderful people responding to my lengthy inquries...hope all your loved ones stay safe and (reasonably!) happy.

Sparky, actually no, US contractors don't have diplomatic immunity in other countries. That is usually reserved for some Department of State employees. Blanket immunity in Iraq was a very unique situation. As far as I know trade and admin workers for KBR will never be leaving an area under direct US military control, with the exception of convoy drivers.

This is a T&M contract job and KBR is hiring warm bodies with minimal standards. I’m not surprised there are a few KBR employees in jail in Dubai.

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: I was there for two years. I need don't need a recruiters name. I am trying to send you the truth so you will know what you are getting yourselves into BEFORE you go. If youthink KBR is going to tell you the truth you are wrong. Do youthink KBR is going to tell you just lost Diplomatic Immunity?

Ms Sparky,
My husband just went through processing where he said that during this whole time he has been told and shown the dangers of the camps, living conditions, the non-drinkability of water, the burn pits, the mortar attacks, bombings, and yesterday before you posted he even informed me of the immunity thing. And the fact that they pretty much say up front that if you are arrested in a foriegn country you are on your own. They will not come to your rescue. You will have to deal with the embassy and they find you an attorney. They have also informed those there of what politics here stateside could do to their contracts. So yes KBR is telling its employees the dangers of what a person is getting involved in before they ever sign their contract.
I don't know when you were there or when you originally went over, but it seems to me that they did have issues in a lot of areas, but now seem to be making corrections to the way they are handling things. Why would you state with such certainity as to what is hapeening within this company now? They really could have learned from their previous mistakes and is now a company that doesn't behave in the manner you were subjected to.

I've worked in several countries working for a US Government contractor such s KBR and had diplomatic immunity. Iraq is not that unique. They are getting ready to turn over the entire Green Zone to Iraqi control. You won't be able to go to the PX without being under the direct control of the Iraqi government and Iraqi Police. I dealt with Iraqi Police in the Green Zone until they got kicked out. They are corrupt. That's just one instance. I'm sure there are others.

And as far as being negative. I didn't get fired from KBR and I had a great boss. But sometimes the truth is negative. My biggest issue with KBR was "our unwavering committment to safety" is BS! Just ask the people purposefully exposed to Sodium Dichromate in Iraq and Afghanistan. Keep an eye on the news.

Be supportive of each other. I think that's great. But know all the facts. It's not all "fluff and butterflies"!

Check out www.americancontractorsiniraq.com/ and find out how injured and dead KBR employees and their families. Check out iraqinfections.com/ and find out just what kind of diseases KBR employees are contracting over there and bringing home to their families. KBR is not telling you that are they.

I get at least a 100 hundred emails a month from current and former KBR employees looking for help. They're sick, they have cancer, their injured, they have PTSD, they have some weird disease or parasite that can't be diagnosed.

All I'm saying is know what you are getting into. If you don't think that's supportive. I don't know what to tell you.

Going over for the money is fine. There's nothing wrong with it. But be prepared to pay the price.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

Koko Wilson in Florida said: Debbie, Switch –ladies of the board. Thanks for the info related to the code book. We were wondering about this. He has the latest edition of 2005 –binder and is quite heavy. And of course this yr they came out with the 08 edition. Son is using this for his apprenticeship. And dh has been researching the British standards. I might have to see if I can get a lighter version of the code book for dh for travel. Does anyone know of other books that might be useful?

Wirenutts wife, wow three times and from the way I hear they are likely to change it again. Its made research this way difficult as trying to get a sense of each country–what with not knowing. I research, you understand, as it making “me” feel less in the dark–as in the fear of the unknown–and like I am doing something to help–so I do not feel helpless. Do those vacuum space saver bags really work? I was thinking we'd roll em up to stuff em in a duffle bag liek we did in the military days.

I am right there with you, I am a research person also. I did find this website: www.bagram.afcent.af.mil for those that are going to Bagram, Afghanistan.
As far as the space saver bags, I live by them! To me these are the greatest thing since sliced bread! I found that you can always take more than what you originally thought you had room for. I am glad we used them, because we were able to fit more warmer clothes into his bag. (Now that he is going to Bagram, they will definitly be needed!) Hubby also took a seabag, we did roll his clothes that he would need while in Houston, but all his bulky odd stuff went into those vaccumm bags. (which we also rolled, kind of like a lining around the seabag)

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: Ask KBR how many KBR employees are sitting in Sharjah and Dubai jail. They won't tell you that. This is muslim law, sharia law. Women could be arrested for not having their hair covered, for showing the bare skin in their arms and legs. This is NOT US law. There are no attorney's to represent you. You can't even speak the language. The next time someone tries to smuggle dinar or something else the Iraqi government deems illegal (which could change daily)....you're arrested in the airport and hauled off to...who the hell knows where?

KBR gets paid to get you there. They aren't going to tell you anything that is going to scare you.

US citizens working for the US Government and US Contractors claim diplomatic immunity in most countries. This is a big deal.

Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

MsSparky, why not tell us how many contractors have been arrested and are sitting in these jails and for what charges? You obviously have alot of issues with KBR, but specious allegations undermine your credibility. Also, what ascepts of KBR treatment of U.S. contractors oversreas is considered illegal in the States? Just curious about that one?

I would just like to say to Ms. Sparky, you have said your peace, new people usually start from the beginning of the forum posts to gather information and will surely see all your postings. So with that being said, why don't you just move on, let go, get on with your life. Everyone in the forum seems to be in agreement that they are tired of your negative comments.

RandyRP in Houston, Texas said: MsSparky, why not tell us how many contractors have been arrested and are sitting in these jails and for what charges? You obviously have alot of issues with KBR, but specious allegations undermine your credibility. Also, what ascepts of KBR treatment of U.S. contractors oversreas is considered illegal in the States? Just curious about that one?

Yes...I have huge issues with the way KBR treats it's employees in Iraq and Afghanistan. You don't tell them the truth. I just had a friend process through Houston. For one, how about knowingly exposing employees and troops to sodium dichromate in Iraq and Afghanistan. How about, mismanaging the electrical work in such a heinous manner that soldiers are killed and KBR employees are injured. How about knowingly providing seriously contaminated water to troops and employees. How about holding rape victims hostage and not allowing them medical services. And the list goes on and on and on.

This is all testimony before Congress. If any of these things happened in the States, someone would be going to jail. And KBR employees have no recourse because of DBA.

All I can tell you is keep an eye on the news. The New York Times and CNN. You will know.

As far as the jails in Dubai, I've emailed the Consulate to get accurate numbers.

Ms Sparky

Which countries did you work in where you think you had full diplomatic immunity? As the name implies this is generally given to diplomats and other State employees.

As far as 'safety being the number on priority' I can only assumed you believe that if working for KBR was the first construction job you ever held.

You obviously have an ax to grind with KBR, legit or not, and I'm assuming it has something to do with a comp claim you tried to file until you found out you couldn't. You are right, you aren't working in the US. You must have realized that when it took you 18 hours to fly to your job site. Why anyone would think US labor laws apply in Iraq is a head scratcher to me. If laws get pass making US labor laws apply to US citizen on US government contracts that would be great.

Personally I think Sparky's comments are fine as long as it's true or she clearly states the reasons for her opinion. No one is putting a gun to your head to work for KBR, the risks are very well defined now and at anytime you can opt out and get flown back to the US on KBR's dime.

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: I've worked in several countries working for a US Government contractor such s KBR and had diplomatic immunity. /

ms. sparky get a life or go on vacation. we are aware of the negitive, and we are tring to push on and do what is best for our familys. I think that the people you claim are contacting you everyday would still do it all over again because it was what was best for their family at the time. Sometimes you have to take risks in life, and push the negitive(maybe's) aside.

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said:
Check out www.americancontractorsiniraq.com/ and find out how injured and dead KBR employees and their families.
mssparky.com/

I did check this out and as an accountant I can tell you and all others on this board that it is politicians like Waxmann (read the first article on the website) that lack credibilty and as such are part of the problem not the cure.

So, KBR paid 284 million to AIG in insurance premiums for it employess, billed the government 292 million, part of the 3% mark up on costs contract. But AIG did not have to spend all off the premium on benifits (just like the entire insurance industry works) So yes, AIG made out nicely. If they are not paying valid claims, sue them. Yet here is where Waxmann is hypocritical. He claims KBR and AIG "pocketed 100 million" the word "pocketed" is pejorative and arguably slanderous. Furthermore, the ONLY way to pay benifits at COST is to self insure and the Goverment not only 1) Does not do it themselves 2) Did not require contractors to use their insurance 3) Stiplutated the terms of the contract 4) The majority of which were competively bid. 5) Failed to disclose the margin it's own carriers made.

Solutions are created when people stop exagerrating reality. Waxmann wants to score votes, yet by not being realistic about the problems we face, here certainly offers no soultions.

Ms Sparky writes: "I just had a friend process through Houston." Oh My God !! What kind of friend are you if you actually let one of your friends process, knowing it is sooooo bad. The facts you keep bringing up are 'old' news. Things have improved and changed, and recruits ARE being advised of the conditions over there. You see, I actually am in processing now and can actually share what is going on in processing NOW.

Ms Sparky in Portland, Oregon said: I've worked in several countries working for a US Government contractor such s KBR and had diplomatic immunity. Iraq is not that unique. They are getting ready to turn over the entire Green Zone to Iraqi control. You won't be able to go to the PX without being under the direct control of the Iraqi government and Iraqi Police. I dealt with Iraqi Police in the Green Zone until they got kicked out. They are corrupt. That's just one instance. I'm sure there are others.
And as far as being negative. I didn't get fired from KBR and I had a great boss. But sometimes the truth is negative. My biggest issue with KBR was "our unwavering committment to safety" is BS! Just ask the people purposefully exposed to Sodium Dichromate in Iraq and Afghanistan. Keep an eye on the news.
Be supportive of each other. I think that's great. But know all the facts. It's not all "fluff and butterflies"!
Check out www.americancontractorsiniraq.com/ and find out how injured and dead KBR employees and their families. Check out iraqinfections.com/ and find out just what kind of diseases KBR employees are contracting over there and bringing home to their families. KBR is not telling you that are they.
I get at least a 100 hundred emails a month from current and former KBR employees looking for help. They're sick, they have cancer, their injured, they have PTSD, they have some weird disease or parasite that can't be diagnosed.
All I'm saying is know what you are getting into. If you don't think that's supportive. I don't know what to tell you.
Going over for the money is fine. There's nothing wrong with it. But be prepared to pay the price.
Ms Sparky
mssparky.com/

For anyone to think that going into a warzone would be "fluff and butterflies" is of course absurd. I don't think that anyone here has implied or suggested that it would be easy or safe. There are references to more desirable camps and the activity of the war at particular base

but far be it from saying they are 100% safe.
KBR flies recruits to Houston for processing, which includes briefing them on a lot of what you say they don't warn you about. At any time you are allowed to leave if you don't think it is something you want to do.
Most people that have made it this far are not going into this "blind." What about soliders that are over there, do you crusade through their military recruitment forums with the same material warning potiential soliders of the dangers of the war?

My husband flew out of Houston this past Tuesday for Iraq. I just heard from him this morning. He is at Camp Victory. He will be there for approx 8 days before he leaves. At this point I believe he's still scheduled to go to Camp Speicher. There is apparently one phone to share with many others so he is going to try to get on-line somehow. We didn't really have any time to talk at all - I'm anxious for him to call again.

candybaar
so how did your husband sound. was the flight ok , and how about the transistion from the airport to the base. what does your husband do , is he an electrician by any chance? I am supposed to be leaving for houston on the 7th. How long did it take him to get out of texas?

My boyfriend is an electrician and leaves for Houston on the 7th also. Anyone have any info on storage availabilty on base ie; footlocker or locker space that can be padlocked? Also wondering about travel time where stop over locations to Bagram from Houston. Thanks and safe travel to all.

jdc_ in riverside, California said: candybaar
so how did your husband sound. was the flight ok , and how about the transistion from the airport to the base. what does your husband do , is he an electrician by any chance? I am supposed to be leaving for houston on the 7th. How long did it take him to get out of texas?

My husband is a master electrician. He went to Houston on a Sunday and was flown out after 8 days. He said there were many others that had been in Houston for a few weeks, but apparently they have an immediate need for electricians in Iraq. He didn't say much about the travel to the base, except that it was l-o-o-ng, and that Lindsey Lohan was on their flight to Dubai (big deal, huh). He said he wasn't totally prepared for the conditions in Iraq, worse than he expected I guess. Definitely looks like a war zone. I suspect it will take a few days for him to adjust to the new environment and get into a daily schedule. We had his old cell phone (which he Fed Ex'd home just before he left the hotel for his flight out) switched to a Houston area code so that now when he calls home he can call the new number and we can save on calling cards/phone bills.

madogg in Valparaiso, Indiana said: I've applied to several jobs on the KBR website with no success. I have a undergrad degree, and with the job market the way it is I am having trouble finding work. I don't have alot of experience with skilled trades but I know they have other opportunities. If you don't mind me asking, what job did you apply for?

I'm going over as a Plumber The KBR web site has listing for all the jobs they are hiring for. Maybe try rewriting your resume or redoing your cover letter and sell yourself. They get so many applications I bet if your cover letter is not convincing they never look at your resume. Keep trying your persistence will pay off. GOOD LUCK

candybaar,
so is your husband planning on staying the whole year or just make some quick money and come home. Did he fly in to camp victory, thats where they said I would go , I am a journeyman electrician, who knows maybe Ill be working for your husband when I get there....anyway I appreicate the info it helps keep my family calm about the about the situation. AlthoughI am getting anxious to go.
thank you all for keeping us up to speed on what to expect.

jdc_ in riverside, California said: candybaar,
so is your husband planning on staying the whole year or just make some quick money and come home. Did he fly in to camp victory, thats where they said I would go , I am a journeyman electrician, who knows maybe Ill be working for your husband when I get there....anyway I appreicate the info it helps keep my family calm about the about the situation. AlthoughI am getting anxious to go.
thank you all for keeping us up to speed on what to expect.

My husband was anxious to get the process started too - he was glad to be leaving Houston in a timely fashion and get on the time clock. He plans to stay the whole year, but it is comforting to know that you can quit and come back at any point should you choose. He flew into Dubai - after that, I'm not sure how he got to Camp Victory.

Itoo am glad we have the option to return at any time but I would also like that tax break so well see what happens. I plan to stay all year but you never know what time has in store. I wish your husband the best out there and like I said maybe Ill run in to him out there. I hope my processing is just as fast . really would like to start making some money and get out there so I can get back.

switch in Austin, Texas said: Finally we have got word. My hubby has been assigned to Camp Speicher. Not the one he was originally told but from what i gather this camp is not too bad at all. If anyone has any info on Camp Speicher in Iraq please, please share it..
Another thing to note, there were 2 people in his group that were on the buddy system, they have be assigned to different camps. Like hubby said they will guarantee the passage over there together. But once in country all bets are off.

my boyfriend must have traveled with your huband, he too has been in spiecher for a few days. i did a lot of research. Looks like kid rock had a concert there a while back. He said it is a green zone. There are a lot of pics if you google or youtube. He is also uploading pics of his station to night to his myspace. He said they have everything there. His internet is working today and he finds time to call me twice a day.

KeriJo454 in Mooresville, North Carolina said: my boyfriend must have traveled with your huband, he too has been in spiecher for a few days. i did a lot of research. Looks like kid rock had a concert there a while back. He said it is a green zone. There are a lot of pics if you google or youtube. He is also uploading pics of his station to night to his myspace. He said they have everything there. His internet is working today and he finds time to call me twice a day.

Is he still in training ? an electrician ? they find out tomorrow where their permenant assignment will be. I would love to see some pictures. My hubby does not have a computer.

he is still in training, he is a firefighter. There were only nine when they trained in Houston and they ALL seperate after liberty. Now he is on his own and has never been away from home. He said the firestation is one of 3 at speicher and his is located between two runways. I don't know who this guy is but he has nice pictures. outdoors.webshots.com/album/145then243then282 bPqvNQ?start=12
I will let you know when neil posts his pics. I know in the firstation they have plenty of telephones, I am very fortunate there. take my thens out of link to view.

I saw this morninh that ITT systems has numerous postings for administative jobs. There site is www.ittsystems.com.

Debbie

If he gets assigned a hooch to live in they have a wall locker, if not you can buy a hard plastic footlocker that you can lock.

Debbie

KeriJo454 in Mooresville, North Carolina said: he is still in training, he is a firefighter. There were only nine when they trained in Houston and they ALL seperate after liberty. Now he is on his own and has never been away from home. He said the firestation is one of 3 at speicher and his is located between two runways. I don't know who this guy is but he has nice pictures. outdoors.webshots.com/album/145then243then282 bPqvNQ?start=12
I will let you know when neil posts his pics. I know in the firstation they have plenty of telephones, I am very fortunate there. take my thens out of link to view.

I couldnt get on that website for some reason. Im glad your hubby is doing well. Speicher is a huge camp and has a ton of ammenities, my hubby arrived there last sunday but has been in training and riding with other electricians for the week. He said he would prefer a smaller camp, i guess he feels overwhelmed. He has a hooch to himself which i think is kinda nice and he said the food was really good. He got on the scales today and has gained 11 lbs, hes only been over there two and a half weeks !!

My son said it is getting pretty cold at Bagram. I sent him a down comforter, 2 down pillows, and a mattress cusion. He said the bed is old with springs sticking him in the back, and the cusion makes it much better. Check out Overstock.com It was only $81 including shipping to his sister, because they would not ship to the APO...but he got them 4 days after she remailed them.

He was told he had to sign the waiver to allow them to take Federal tax out, and a friend here in Cozumel who works for KBR said as of July tax will be taken on everyone and you will get it back on tax return.

Joe's Mom

Kiki...are you in Tikrit now or on R&R as I see you have internet access. You also mentioned footwear...any suggestions for what a man should bring who does not work in the trades? My thoughts are to bring "Polo-type" shirts, a few Tee's, workboots and khaki pants as well as some warm weather clothing...sound about right for am admin-type or should I be bringing long and short sleeve dress shirts, tie and loafers too?
Sorry this is getting so long, but one more important item: What about snail mail? How do I forward mail to an APO address if one does not know what address to forward it to? I am single but could possibly send mail to a relative for a short time, I guess. Any suggestions on what works best in this situation?
Again, many thanks to all you wonderful people responding to my lengthy inquries...hope all your loved ones stay safe and (reasonably!) happy.

I'm in Tikrit right now,all KBR offices have internet access.You can bring you PC, but there is no guarantee you'll be able to get internet service on it. Some camps have programs where you can pay about $70 a month for internet in your hooch, but most times it 's slow and not very reliable, but some camps don't have that option, and at some camps, you can't bring it at all, so I would leave it at home and wait to get to where you're going, and then have it shipped to you if possible.I'm in my office on the computer for 12 hrs a day so I just do what I need to do online while i'm at work.If you are an office worker, the dress code is collared shirts, they can be long or short sleeve, but you have to have a collar.you can wear khaki's or jean's whatever you prefer, and sefinitely some warm weather clothes like sweaters, hoodies, jackets, and bring work out clothes too.I'd recommend a good pair of boots like timberlands or something because of the rocks and mud.You will get your mail address when you get to your site.

for those wondering about footwear. Someone had put up the address www.lapolicegear.com I checked out the site and decided to get a pair of the Converse 8" side zip composite toe tactical desert boot. They run about $100. The reviews are right! These are the lightest most comfortable boots I have ever worn! They should be great for the enviroment over there. I believe they also come in 6" non safety toe.

Morning everyone!

Wow. Seems as everyone has been very busy, lots more wonderful contributions and info!!!!

On the topic of laptops/ computers–sending one with or over later–or not at all. We have a couple of extras left over from the business, but I just do not know if they are up to speed anymore and I am not that computer savvy. Like a water facet I want to turn it on and have it work without much input from me. They do work with our brighthouse package–I checked em out, but my guess is that they need to be wireless accessible to work over there, correct?

Waiver on taxes. I heard that this was optional–the signing over. Rather there are two different forms–one that allows them to take taxes out and one that allows for no taxes out and it is up to you to decide. I had also heard that they might urge you to decide to have taxes out in the event that you are not out of country for the 330 days–as in leave/ quit early.

Also just to confirm for those of you who are already in Houston and or have departed, did they take a cell phone with? I know they are not allowed to use them oversea–what’s more, I don’t think they will actually work overseas. But I heard that they can take them as long as you pull the battery–keep it separated from? Know this may sound nonsense, but the idea of him taking one with is more of a security blanket to me. He’s been gone a lot over the yrs and there have been times before where they did not work, but still we got into the habit of considering them our life line between us.

For those of you who were about yesterday to defend the support of this board, I thank you. I agree with what others have said that I do think that if there were issues and problems in the past, that it has been or is being corrected.

Sorry. One more question. Time change difference, –at least for Iraq is 7-8 hrs correct? Do they lose it or gain it?