SEIU Local 517M

Union Staff Representative

May be based out of offices in Lansing, Detroit, or Saginaw, MI
(willing to work extensively in West Michigan)

 

Job Title:
Union Staff Representative

Pay:
$69,804.80 – $80-995.20 (based on experience)

About Us
SEIU Local 517M is a public sector union representing nearly 7,000 members across Michigan. We are part of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), a national organization with over 2 million members. Our team includes 10 full-time staff dedicated to strengthening worker voice and advancing economic justice.

Position Summary
SEIU Local 517M is seeking a Union Staff Representative to support and grow our membership and workplace leadership. This role is responsible for contract enforcement, member engagement, organizing, and collective bargaining.

The position may be based out of our offices in Lansing, Detroit, or Saginaw, with a strong preference for candidates located in or willing to work extensively in West Michigan.

This is a dynamic role that includes field work, organizing, and representation. Evening, weekend work, and travel to worksites will be required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage grievances, hearings, arbitrations, and disciplinary appeals
• Recruit, train, and support worksite leaders and member activists
• Serve as a primary resource on contract interpretation and workplace issues
• Build strong relationships with members through regular communication and site visits
• Develop and lead issue-based campaigns to address workplace concerns
• Support collective bargaining, including serving as chief or backup negotiator
• Conduct research (e.g., salary surveys, bargaining data) to strengthen negotiations
• Assist legal staff in case preparation, including investigation and witness prep
• Mobilize members for organizing, legislative, and electoral campaigns
• Maintain accurate records, calendars, and reports related to assigned units

 
Qualifications

• Knowledge of Michigan labor laws (e.g., PERA, MERC, Civil Service Rules)
• Experience with grievance handling and/or arbitration proceedings
• Familiarity with collective bargaining and contract negotiations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to build relationships and work in complex, sensitive situations
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently with sound judgment and discretion
• Public speaking and member engagement skills
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel regularly

Preferred:

• 3–4 years of labor relations or equivalent experience
• Experience working with union contracts
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Flexible spending account
• Paid time off

Work Requirements

• Willingness to travel (approximately 50%)
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed
• Preference for candidates able to work in or support West Michigan regions

How to Apply
This position is open until the position(s) is filled and may close at any time.
Please send your résumé to: ccorr@seiu517m.org.

No phone calls, please email.