The gear to which skilled workers may feel entitled (12)
I believe the answer is:
differential
'the gear' is the definition.
(differential gear is a kind of gear)
I can't explain the remainder of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for differential that I've seen before include "Distinguishing; type of gear, calculus" , "measure of variation" , "marking a distinction" , "Sort of gear - sort of equation" , "Gear found on the rear axle of cars" .)