ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando will raise its starting wage to $17 an hour in June, a $2 increase over its current rate of $15 an hour.

The pay hike, effective June 4, was announced Tuesday by Universal Orlando president Karen Irwin in a letter to employees.

In addition to a bump in the starting pay, Universal will also increase base wages for other roles and give current employees raises based on how long they worked at the resort.

“Many Team Members will receive an increase based on the new rates and their time with the company,” Irwin said in the letter.

Universal will also expand employee benefits, including its 401(k) match and tuition reimbursement programs. It’s also added compassion leave and doubled parental leave.

The letter said Universal has already begun enhancing its work environment by upgrading employee break areas and restrooms, and it has plans for employee dining.

“Our culture seeks to create a path forward that supports our Team Members, gives them an opportunity to grow and fosters a real sense of purpose and belonging,” Irwin wrote in the letter.

In a statement, Universal said wages are just one part of its efforts to create a better work experience at the resort.

"We aspire to be the employer of choice in this market, providing an inclusive environment where team members are proud to work, have opportunity to grow and feel a real sense of purpose and belonging," Universal spokesperson Tom Schroder told Spectrum News. 

Universal recently announced plans to hire thousands of workers. The resort said it's currently looking to fill part-time, full-time, seasonal and professional roles at its parks and CityWalk complex.

Universal's pay raise announcement comes as Disney World and the unions representing thousands of its workers prepare to return to the negotiating table for a new contract. Earlier this month, union members voted to reject Disney’s offer that would give most workers a $1 an hour raise each year of the contract. The unions have been demanding a starting wage of at least $18 an hour in the first year.

Local 362, which represents about 8,000 Disney cast members, tweeted that negotiations start back up Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 9 a.m. at Sheraton Lake Buena Vista.