SEIU Local 49
 

External Organizer

Based in Portland, OR

 

Summary: Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 49 is now accepting résumés from smart, motivated individuals who have a passion for helping workers fight for better working conditions, dignity on the job, and improvements in healthcare for all working families.

SEIU Local 49 is a 15,000-member local union based in Portland, Oregon. The Local represents and organizes janitors, security officers, and health care workers throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. We are committed to helping workers fight for social and economic justice on the job and in the community.

Job Description:
Some specific duties shall include:

• Identify, recruit, and develop worksite leaders in their jobs and communities
• Develop and implement effective organizing plans
• Motivate and inspire workers to build their union in the face of heavy—and often illegal—employer opposition
• Using house visits, leafleting, and phone calls to identify workers interested in forming a union
• Working long and irregular hours, often including nights and weekends
• Actively participate in other union activities, political organizing (including canvassing/walking neighborhoods) and solidarity actions
• Accept and provide leadership and/or training with union members, non-union workers and other union staff
• Develop, assist in developing messages to motivate and inspire workers
• Other duties as necessary to win as part of a movement of working people, and as assigned

SEIU 49 is committed to developing the capacity of staff to take on growing roles and responsibilities and will review additional duties with successful candidates.

Qualifications:

• Dedication to improving the quality of life for working people and desire to do the hard, but rewarding, work to accomplish that goal
• Excellent interpersonal & writing/communication skills, including the ability to successfully relate to people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures
• Enthusiasm and energy for working with worker leaders to develop their confidence, hope, and skills as worksite leaders
• Ability and willingness to solve problems creatively and think on your feet
• Must have strong judgment and strategic sense
• Must be able to perform successfully in both independent and team settings
• Must be able to succeed in an environment of accountability in meeting the goals of the campaign
• Must be willing to participate in a strong program of staff development that fosters and challenges you to develop your skills, experience, and leadership

Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver’s license and automobile for work use
• Ability to work long and irregular hours, often including nights and weekends
• Ability to walk & canvass for extended periods of time
• Competency with MS Outlook/Office and eagerness to learn use of current data systems in support of organizing
• Organizing experience a plus
• Must be willing to travel regionally and nationally for extended periods of time

Compensation:
Salary ranges from $66,969 to $103,877 depending on experience plus a car allowance, fully paid family healthcare, vacation and sick leave, retirement plans and other benefits.

The job will be open until filled.

To Apply:
If this interests you, email cover letter and résumé to: resume@seiu49.org.

SEIU Local 49 is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
Women and People of Color encouraged to apply.