So let's look at this... Most new hires don't opt for 401k because they need money to buy things like "food and water."

However, assuming that most places are 2%, 4%, 6% match based upon longevity... That means if you earned $35k yr 1 and maxed your 401k contribution, the company would contribute $700. (Roughly $2 per day). Five years later... Assume total company contribution of around $5k.

Not exactly a needle pusher in my mind. As far as being vested from day one.... $5k after five years is lollipop money even if vested at 100%.

Why not over block 1 hour for every 4-day trip for the next 5 years? You could probably earn an extra 250-300 hours of pay during that time.