Lead Internal Organizer - Milwaukee Based

About SEIU Wisconsin:

SEIU Wisconsin is Wisconsin's largest and fastest-growing property services and health care workers union. We represent over 7,000 workers across the state. In these tough economic times, there has been no stronger advocate for safe jobs with good wages and benefits for workers in Wisconsin.

POSITION SUMMARY:

SEIU Wisconsin is seeking a Lead Internal Organizer based in Milwaukee who can independently organize complex member campaigns, lead a team of internal organizers, recognize and overcome union-busting activities on the part of employers, and assist in contract campaigns for various bargaining units at the same time. The incumbent must also look for ways to build an effective organizational structure for the union at the local and bargaining unit level that builds membership and power for SEIU WI, while contributing to a culture focused on achieving long-term power for workers and communities all across Wisconsin.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under the supervision of the Executive Director or their designee(s), lead a team of internal organizers and drive member organizing strategies.
• Participate in negotiations as an assistant or lead bargainer
• Develop and manage campaign plans for contract.
• Manage effective employer relations and grievances as necessary, as well as understanding a strategic approach to both.
• Work collaboratively with the leadership team to develop and execute an internal organizing strategy.
• Identify new organizing targets and develop a system to respond to requests for help from non-represented workers.
• Communicate effectively with staff and members, including through the use of new technologies.
• Plan and implement comprehensive organizing campaigns, leverage campaigns, running small and large worker meetings, conducting and training internal organizers to conduct effective house visits and one-on-one meetings (both internal and external organizing)
• Develop and manage worksite organizing committees, including member stewards, leaders, contract action team leaders and bargaining committee members.
• Serve as staff support on assigned SEIU WI committees.
• Document weekly work plans and drive strategy and accountability of the internal organizers through their work plans
• Stay current on issues of importance in the sectors represented by SEIU Wisconsin and in labor relations.
• Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or their designee(s).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 5 years of experience leading worker-organizing campaigns for a labor union.
• Supervisory experience and ability to supervise staff.
• Commitment to membership empowerment.
• Substantial knowledge and experience in internal organizing.
• Knowledge of the budget process and an ability to safeguard the members’ dues money at all times.
• Creative and innovative ideas on problem-solving, willingness to attempt new approaches to internal (and external) organizing.
• Superior communication skills; oral and written, including the use of new technologies to effectively reach members.
• Sensitivity, ability to motivate others, exceptional interpersonal skills.
• Computer proficiency and ability to use standard office programs to create literature and communicate effectively with members.
• Knowledge and/or experience in the organizing model of servicing.
• Grievance handling experience.
• Driver’s license, automobile, and ability to travel are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge and/or experience in organizing, bargaining, representation, and/or arbitration.
• Community organizing, coalition building, labor union experience.
• Health care background or experience desirable.
• Relevant professional and/or educational degrees.
• Familiarity with the legal intricacies of labor law related to organizing health care facilities.
• Knowledge and/or experience servicing large (500+) bargaining units.
• Knowledge and/or experience bargaining and/or organizing when opposed by union busters preferred.
• Relevant professional and/or educational degrees.
• Bilingual.

LOCATION:

This position is based in the Milwaukee office and focused on SEIU WI’s membership in the Milwaukee metro, south central and eastern Wisconsin regions. Assignments are subject to change based on the needs and goals of the union. Some travel to various locations will be required, although the majority of members under this position work in the Milwaukee metro region.

Salary and Benefits:

Starting annual salary range of $73,197.49 - $84,855.75, based on experience.

Benefits include employer paid premiums for health, dental, vision and life insurance, employer contribution to an excellent defined benefit pension plan, monthly car allowance, generous paid time off, paid holidays and paid sick time.

Send cover letter and résumé to:

SEIU Wisconsin

Email: info@seiuwi.org

33 Nob Hill Road

Madison, WI 53705

Fax 608-270-2025