American Federation of Teachers

Lead Union Organizer

Based in Gary, IN / Chicagoland

 

JOB DESCRIPTION:
This is a full-time lead organizing position with a local affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Organizers will support development and implementation of new organizing campaigns by building relationships with workers, developing issues-based organizing plans, recruiting and sustaining motivation of organizing committee members and activists, having 1:1 conversations with members and potential members, working with the organizing committee to plan and implement outreach and mobilizations, and supporting workers in first contract campaigns. Prior labor union organizing experience strongly preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 2 years of previous professional labor and/or relevant community organizing strongly preferred
• Willing to work irregular hours, evenings/weekends as needed
• Dedicated to social and economic justice and equitable access to high quality public education
• Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse population
• Have strong communications skills
• Must be competent in basic computer/web functions, Google suite, Microsoft, Zoom, and social media platforms
• Be motivated, responsible, organized, professional and detail-oriented
• Be able to work independently while also being able to incorporate constructive feedback and direction from the campaign director and local/state union leaders
• Experience in education, community, or labor activism is a plus

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Organize and mobilize workers around building strong unions, improving learning and working conditions, and winning strong collective bargaining agreements 
• Attend regular meetings with supervisors and team to discuss progress and plan activities
• One-on-one visits, site visits, meetings, and other interaction with members and potential members
• Develop leaders and build representative organizing committees of workers
• Enter assessments and other data to maintain an updated database
• Occasionally, be willing to work or attend meetings/trainings in other parts of the state or country as required 
• Take direction on activities to grow membership and accomplish goals

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Salary is commensurate with experience. Benefits are comprehensive and competitive, including health, paid leave includes vacation, personal, and sick days; travel and expense reimbursements.

HOW TO APPLY:
Please submit cover letter, résumé and 3 references to Alyssa Biondo (abiondo@aft.org) with the subject line “IN Organizer”.

Equal Employment Opportunity and all are encouraged to apply.