A class action lawsuit has been filed against the aerospace and defense systems company, RTX Corporation, alleging age discrimination against job seekers over the age of 40. The lawsuit claims that certain job ads used by the company show a preference for younger workers, in violation of federal and state laws. The company, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, denies the allegations and states that it complies with all age discrimination laws.
The lawsuit, filed by the AARP Foundation and two law firms, states that job advertisements for “Recent Graduate Positions” imply a preference for younger candidates who have recently graduated from college or have limited work experience. The positions are not necessarily low-paying, with salaries exceeding $100,000. The suit currently has one named plaintiff and is brought on behalf of others who may join the case later.
The complaint details the experience of the named plaintiff, Mark H. Goldstein, a 67-year-old job seeker with decades of experience in various fields related to technology, security, and consulting. Despite applying for several recent graduate positions at Raytheon, Goldstein alleges that he was not hired, interviewed, or seriously considered due to his age. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) previously found that Goldstein was denied opportunities based on his age, not his qualifications.
In response to the EEOC’s findings, Raytheon made changes to its job ads but the complaint alleges that the language still discriminates against older job seekers. Goldstein filed a second charge of discrimination with the EEOC in 2023, which is currently under investigation. The lawsuit seeks to hold RTX Corporation accountable for age discrimination in its hiring practices and to ensure fair treatment for job seekers of all ages.
The lawsuit highlights the challenges faced by older workers in finding employment, particularly in industries where perceived youthful energy and innovation are prioritized. By shedding light on discriminatory hiring practices, the case serves as a reminder that age should not be a determining factor in a candidate’s qualifications for a position. Companies like RTX Corporation have a responsibility to ensure that their hiring practices are fair and inclusive of individuals of all ages.
The allegations of age discrimination against RTX Corporation raise important questions about the enforcement of employment laws and the need for greater accountability. Job seekers, regardless of their age, should be given equal opportunities to compete for positions based on their skills and qualifications. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for how companies approach recruitment and hiring practices in the future, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Discussion about this post