University Staff United, AFT MI Local 284

USU Executive Director

Based in Ann Arbor, MI

 

Who we are
University Staff United, AFT Local 284 (USU), is a diverse and growing union of and for staff at the University of Michigan. The student and instructional services bargaining unit (SIS) was recognized in February 2025, representing ~1,900 workers, and ratified our first contract in February 2026. 

The SIS unit represents non-student, non-supervisory staff who provide services to current or prospective students or facilitate access to specialized educational resources. The unit includes academic advisors, residence hall staff, childcare center teachers, admissions counselors, mental health professionals, library support staff, among others. We are part of one of the fastest growing unions in the country and as a local plan to continue organizing the remaining unorganized staff at U-M.

Responsibilities
We are seeking an experienced and energized Executive Director to become the first staff member of our innovative and progressive local union of higher education professionals. We are looking for dynamic and forward-thinking leadership as we work to transform higher education for the benefit of our students and our members.

The Executive Director will work with our local leadership team and other staff to:

• Develop and empower local leaders and activists to handle union responsibilities;
• Negotiate and enforce collective bargaining agreements;
• Continue organizing new bargaining units, from building organizing committees to winning recognition to negotiating first contracts;
• Manage the financial, data and office responsibilities of the union;
• Hire and supervise other staff members in the future;
• Develop strategic campaign plans;
• Engage members and increase participation in union activities;
• Perform duties as assigned by local leadership to advance the mission of the organization; and
• Participate in building a stronger labor movement at U-M and beyond.

Qualifications:

• Independent project management skills
• Leadership development and training ability
• Ability to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds
• Ability to listen actively, frame issues, and facilitate meetings
• Knowledge of organizing strategies, collective bargaining, and contract enforcement
• Knowledge of higher education and labor issues
• Ability to write and speak effectively
• General computer literacy and proficiency in basic data management
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends and participate in union-wide activities
• Valid driver’s license and/or access to reliable transportation to travel to the Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn campuses of the University of Michigan

Preferred Qualifications:

• Three years of union organizing experience
• Three years of contract enforcement experience
• Experience managing staff in unions or other social justice organizations
• Experience in communications and the political process

Compensation: Salary range of $85,000 – $110,000 depending on experience. Benefits, including health, vision, and dental.

How to Apply:
Apply by submitting a .pdf file including a cover letter highlighting your approach to building strong unions and developing leaders and your professional résumé (with “USU Executive Director” in the subject line) to USU President Nathan Sadowsky at: president@universitystaffunited.org. 

Application review will begin May 25th.

USU and AFT Michigan are equal opportunity employers. Women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.