Illinois Federation of Teachers
500 Oakmont Lane
Westmont, Illinois 60559

Full-Time Strategic Researcher

Assigned to the Chicago, IL office

 

To Apply:
Application is made by sending a letter and current résumé to the attention of Kathy Murray by e-mail to KMurray@ift-aft.org no later than October 15, 2026;

1. A current staff member may be granted a voluntary transfer within the bargaining unit which may cause a change in the office assignment of this vacancy;
2. The IFT does not pay the cost of any expense incurred in the interview process, or any expense incurred in relocation when employment requires a change in residency;
3. Interviewees will be selected from the application letters with current resumes received by the deadline date; 
4. Interviews will be conducted in the Chicago office or via zoom;
5. Employment will begin as per a mutual agreement between the successful applicant and the IFT;
6. Salary and benefits as per experience and the contract between the IFT and IOU/CNG.

Illinois Federation of Teachers is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Any questions regarding the vacant position may be directed to the attention of Kurt Hilgendorf at khilgendorf@ift-aft.org, or Kathy Murray at the email above. 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

1. Experience in researching education and public policies that impact IFT members and affect collective bargaining and other worker rights.
2. Knowledge of and ability to analyze state and local pension systems and related law.
3. Experience in conducting private sector corporate and other strategic research.
4. Demonstrated experience in conducting and winning strategic campaigns.
5. Experience in developing and delivering training and professional development to groups.
6. Advance skills in database work and online search strategies. 
7. Excellent oral and written communications skills.
8. Extensive knowledge of areas related to all aspects of collective bargaining including organizing and contract campaigns.
9. Extensive knowledge of processing and advocating contract grievances and arbitrations, including labor law.
10. Experience in collecting and analyzing data related to compensation and benefits of workers.
11. Experience in analyzing public sector budgets (pre-K-12, higher education, state agencies).
12. Extensive knowledge of:
    • Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Access, Power Point
    • Westlaw & other legal research resources
    • Public document searches and other online research tools
13. Ability to creatively and independently identify research needs and to plan, initiate and successfully complete extensive research projects.
14. Ability to work in multi-party coalitions and with groups outside the IFT, as directed.
15. Strong knowledge of rules and regulations under state and federal labor relations boards and of federal and state labor laws and regulations.
16. Ability to work independently and to work long hours, including some holidays and weekends as needed, and to produce work on short deadlines.
17. Willing to travel long distances as needed.

MAIN FUNCTIONS
OVERSEE IFT RESEARCH PROGRAM

1. Design and initiate specific research programs in areas including: contracts, salary, arbitration, organizing, legal, legislative and public policy, political, corporate, community engagement and other strategic areas as needed.
2. Develop and maintain statewide research capabilities and databases.
3. Present before groups interested in IFT information.
4. Provide approved parties with IFT research.
5. Coordinate research requests and assistance with AFT Strategic Resource Department.

PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO LOCALS, LEADERSHIP, AND STAFF

1. Provide assistance through field service directors.
2. Update and train locals upon request in coordination with field service directors or other staff.
3. Update and train staff on a continuing basis.

OTHER SPECIFIC ASSIGNMENTS

1. Work under the daily supervision and direction of the Chief of Staff or the General Counsel.
2. Attend IFT meetings and workshops.
3. Assist in IFT convention and conference programs.
4. Assist in legislative and political activities, communications and media needs, and organizing and field campaigns.
5. Produce timely reports on IFT research activities, as directed.
6. Carry out assignments as directed by the President, Chief of Staff, or the General Counsel.

SALARY AND BENEFITS 
Budgeted salary: range from $87,000.00 to $103,333.00 annually. The IFT anticipates hiring within this range; however, exceptional candidates with significant experience may be considered above this range consistent with organizational needs and internal equity. 

Benefits: This position includes a 100% employer-paid, health, dental and vision plan, a remote allowance, and a generous 401k contribution. The IFT also provides a competitive package of paid time off and paid holidays.