United Food and Commercial Workers

Senior Research Associate

Based in Washington, DC
(on-site)
ufcw.org

 

Organization:
The UFCW is a dynamic union with members in all 50 states, U.S. territories and Canada. Our members work in grocery stores, non-food retail, food processing, meat processing, distillery and cannabis industries, as well as have footprint in state and local government, healthcare, light manufacturing and warehouses. UFCW members face fights for workplace safety, healthcare, higher wages, fair scheduling and paid sick days/paid leave. We work aggressively to advocate for our members’ benefits at the local, state and national levels.

Location:
Washington, DC (on-site)

Position Description:
The Senior Research Associate conducts research and analysis for major projects within the Strategic Resources Department and assists in training junior staff. This senior-level position develops and executes strategies to confront corporate power through impactful research and coordinated action.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conducts research and analysis for major Strategic Resources projects.
• Performs strategic analysis to support organizing programs, collective bargaining, and legislative initiatives.
• Assists with the development and training of departmental personnel.
• Supports development of department infrastructure and initiatives.
• Performs advanced qualitative analysis for campaigns and negotiations, integrating complex corporate structure and policy insights.
• Independently assesses the validity of external research and analysis.
• Conducts complex financial analyses and prepares materials for negotiations or stakeholder engagement.
• Writes, edits, and proofreads high-quality written materials under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrates initiative and collaboration within department teams.
• Works professionally with staff at all organizational levels and external industry experts.
• Mentors and provides leadership to junior staff; leads specialized trainings as needed.
• Exercises discretion while interacting with international staff, regional offices, local unions, and members.
• Travel and extended work hours are required.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required. Advanced degree or significant equivalent labor union experience strongly preferred.
• 5–7 years of progressive experience in union or related research roles.
• Experience in labor, political action, or community service work is a plus.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Access (or equivalent programs).
• Familiarity with APIs and browser/scraping tools for data collection is a plus (training provided if needed).
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Must be able to develop and deliver training.
• Ability to perform advanced quantitative analysis; strong Excel skills required.
• Must demonstrate strong initiative, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, balance competing demands, and anticipate future needs.
• Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive situations and information.
• Commitment to the mission of the UFCW and improving the lives of working people.

Personal Characteristics:

• A strong commitment to the mission of the UFCW to improve the living standards of workers in represented industries is essential for success in this role. Candidates should demonstrate initiative, attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to work collaboratively and independently. A passion for equity, fairness, and labor rights is expected.

Job Demands:

• Frequent travel required, occasionally on short notice.
• Must be able to work long and irregular hours.
• Must manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Physical Demands:

• Requires written and verbal communication skills, extended periods of sitting, use of a computer keyboard, close vision, stooping, bending, and reaching.

Compensation:
Salary Range: $66,931 - $84,445.

The UFCW provides a very generous benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Life insurance provided with the ability to purchase supplemental life insurance at favorable rates.
• Retirement Savings Account.
• 401(k) plan with employer matching.
• Pension plan.
• Dependent care reimbursement account program.
• Health care reimbursement account program.
• Transportation program benefits.
• Three weeks of paid vacation, 12 days of paid short-term sick leave, Extended Sick Leave program, paid parental leave.
• Prepaid Legal Plan (for DC/MD/VA only).

Duration:
This is a full-time position; posting closes when the position is filled.

Vaccination Requirement: The UFCW requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment, consistent with applicable law. Any request or questions may be submitted to hrcovid@ufcw.org.

To Apply:
Submit cover letter, résumé to: humanresources@ufcw.org