Houston Federation of Teachers
Field Representative/Organizer
Based in Houston, TX
The Houston Federation of Teachers (HFT) is an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO, a union representing 6,200 Houston ISD professional and classified workers, including teachers, nurses, counselors, teacher assistants, clerks and school secretaries.
We are a strong unified voice in education and the labor movement and are dedicated to improving the quality of people’s working and personal lives through commitments to quality education, social justice and a powerful progressive labor movement.
JOB DESCRIPTION
HFT is seeking a full-time Field Representative/Organizer. Field Representatives/Organizers are responsible for assisting, advising, and training worksite leaders and activists in building a strong union. Responsibilities include developing issues-based organizing plans, building worksite leader systems, member organizing, handling grievance processes, political activation and education, and leadership development.
The ideal candidate will have three or more years of demonstrated experience organizing and representing faculty and staff in the PreK-12 environment. The position is based in Houston but may require travel in coordination with our affiliates.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Dedicated to the labor movement, social and economic justice, and public education for all
- Able to work with individuals different from one’s self
- Able to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats
- Computer skills to minimally include: word, excel, outlook and use of social media platforms
- Active listening skills
- Grievance handling experience
- Ability to manage complex tasks and set priorities
- Experience working well as part of a team
- Coordinate work of other staff as assigned to projects and activities
- Willing to work long and irregular hours, including weekends
- In possession of an insured vehicle and valid driver’s license
- Experience in public education is a plus
SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assisting, researching, training, and leading worksite organizing activities
- Assisting in grievances and administrative hearings
- Developing worksite leadership
- Mentoring and training building leaders and activists
- Collecting and tracking membership data
- Build local power and membership involvement
- Plan, lead, and participate in organizing drives
- Work independently with minimal supervision and consistently meet weekly goals.
- Attend weekly meetings with supervisors to discuss progress and plan activities
- Meet with members and non-members at their workplace or their home, conduct 1-1 visits, group meetings and have regular phone conversations with educators.
- Assist local in increasing local density
- Assist in educating members on political issues and encouraging political participation
- Assist with political action fund outreach
Salary and Benefits: We provide competitive compensation in accordance with our collectively bargained contract. In addition, we provide excellent benefits, paid sick leave, 401K, vacation, health insurance.
To Apply
Submit your résumé to: sreichek@hft2415.org.
HFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all are encouraged to apply.
WHEN APPLYING: Be sure to indicate that you saw this information at UNIONJOBS.COM.
