So should I be thinking of leaving?

Question

Now I work part time during the school year and full time during the summer for a local hardware store. I have been there for over a year now and am still making the same wages as I started. However, when I asked for a raise after my first year I was denied. The next day he came up to me and said that I would get 6.55 on July 24th (Federal Wage Increase). However, I hold seniority over all the other teenage help around the place and yet I will make the same as a new employee who has only been there for a month. Plus I do not do sports and I put in the most hours of any teenager there (even more than some of the adults) Also, ever since I asked for the raise he has given me a lot of jobs to do that seem, well, to accomplish nothing more than to p**s me off. (Example: Have me move one pallet of concrete to another pallet across the room when he could use the forklift and be done with it in a few minutes, instead of having me spend an hour moving each bag individually. In turn this costs him more money to pay me than to use the fuel for the forklift.)

I got another job lined up (a few actually) that will pay more off the bat by about a dollar an hour, but I do kind of like my job, but what I do does not justify my pay. (I also repair glass and screen doors and windows along with lawnmowers) So I need some other opinions on this matter. Sorry for the wall of text, but if you did read it you have my thanks.

Answer 1

I'd say give your notice.  If your boss really likes your work ethic, then perhaps he'll offer you more to stay.

Answer 2

I think that you were completely justified in asking for a raise, considering your seniority and experience.  If what you say is true, then it sounds like you have a very small and petty boss who holds a grudge for no good reason.  I think it is time for you to move on while you can still use your boss as a good reference.  Just make sure that you give proper notice (usually 2 weeks), and you give it to him in writing.  If he craps on you while you are working out your notice, do not hesitate to walk immediately.  I think you will be much happier working at a place that will treat you with respect, and will give you the pay that you deserve.