SEIU Local 49
 

Political and Government Affairs Organizer

Based in Portland, OR

 

Summary: The 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 a more just and humane society for all working families.

SEIU Local 49 is a growing union and represents over 15,000 workers throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. With about 2 million members, SEIU is the largest and fastest-growing union in the United States.

Job Description:
Local 49’s member leadership has adopted an aggressive internal organizing and representation program that includes recruiting and developing worksite leaders, building workers’ political power, and strongly representing our members through direct action and organizing.

The Political and Government Affairs Organizer will work with Local 49, State Council staff and leadership at Locals 503 and 49 and our Allies in government and reports to the SEIU 49 Political Director.

Responsibilities include driving our legislative plans by lobbying in Salem and with local governments in Oregon and SW Washington, implementation of issue-based campaigns of importance to SEIU members and working families in Oregon and SW Washington, working with state and local agency officials, coalition priorities with partner groups and participating in targeted state and federal campaigns.

This full-time position will often require irregular hours including many nights and weekends. An ideal candidate will be organized, energetic, able to motivate others, and committed to growing the labor movement and improving the lives of working people.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Represent SEIU and partner organizations in lobbying, coalition work, and public forums with elected officials, state and local agencies
• Design, lead, and implement strategic campaigns on policy and legislative objectives, integrating efforts across departments (internal, organizing, communications, political, research)
• Plan and manage multiple campaigns and projects simultaneously in a high-pressure environment requiring rapid adjustment to changing priorities and strategies
• Coordinate and execute political activities including lobbying, electoral and issue campaigns, town halls, and accountability actions with elected officials
• Work with multiple levels of staff and members to develop goals and execute plans for members’ participation in candidate interviews, lobby days, town hall meetings, elected official accountability activities, voter registration drives, vote-by-mail and GOTV activities
• Collaborate with field staff and members to integrate political strategy into organizing and contract campaigns.
• Support the development and dissemination of internal and external political materials and communication systems and maintain communication systems for distribution of information and materials for organizing political action.
• Track and increase member participation using data tools and provide administrative support for member leadership and committee meetings.
• Provide staff support to our elected and ad-hoc member leadership meetings, schedule member committee meetings, train and mentor staff, member activists to help them achieve political goals
• Engage in direct political action including canvassing, phone banking, voter registration, GOTV, and signature gathering.
• Analyze and research public policy related to union priorities and growth and prepare supporting materials.
• Assist in developing and executing the union’s overall political program and strategy in coordination with directors and consultants.
• Prepare member communications in English and Spanish
• Prepare and/or support the creation of member education materials
• Other duties as assigned in support of building power for working people.

Qualifications:

• A demonstrated commitment to union issues and growing the labor movement
• Position requires knowledge of public policy affecting our members, organizing experience, and lobbying experience.
• At least 4 years' experience running campaigns for state, local or federal office
• Strong computer literacy including the ability to manipulate and analyze member and voter data.
• Spanish writing and speaking skills, ability to communicate with monolingual Spanish speaking members is a plus.
• Lobbying experience should include experience drafting legislation, coordination of in-the-halls lobbying campaigns and grassroots lobbying campaigns, maintenance of ongoing relationships with legislators, preparation and delivery of testimony, experience with policy analysis, an understanding of communications and field support for lobbying campaigns, and an understanding of budgets and the budgeting process.
• Experience managing relationships with contract lobbyists and other consultants.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and automobile for business use.

Working Environment:
This position will include working in the field and traveling to events throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington with sometimes overnight stays. In addition, evening and weekend availability is commonly required to support campaigns. The workweek is Monday through Friday plus weekend work when specifically assigned. The workday may begin before and extend beyond normal office hours depending on the demands of the assignment.

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.

Requirements:

• Experience as a lead staffer.
• Experience working with coalitions and working to mobilize the community in campaigns.
• Demonstrated ability to work with a variety of personalities and organizations and under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize work and carry it through to conclusion without close supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to work with political campaigns and provide expertise on message and field in campaigns.
• Possess an understanding of the political structure and process.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills.

Compensation:
Salary ranges from $66,969.37 to $103,877.05 depending on experience. Other benefits include a car allowance, fully paid family healthcare, vacation and sick leave, retirement plans and other benefits.

To Apply:
Send résumé and cover letter describing your interest in the job, to resume@seiu49.org

SEIU Local 49 is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, people of color and bi-lingual candidates encouraged to apply. SEIU is committed to racial and economic justice and is an Affirmative Action/equal opportunity employer.