OPSEU/SEFPO members working in universities and Ontario’s public colleges — as support staff and faculty — are building worker power. To continue this critical work, we are bringing on member organizers!
Core parts of this organizing work will involve outreach to part-time and full-time members and identifying natural leaders within workplace departments and other areas.
We are organizing during a time of unprecedented cuts to our public education system. Members need to understand the crisis of the college and university system, and the importance of banding together to fight to win. The Member Organizer’s primary role is to have 1-on-1 conversations with members to educate them on the current landscape and to get them plugged into actions but primarily, getting them talking to their colleagues. You may also be working with local leaders to map their membership and increase member engagement with the union. This work involves both remote activities (conducted via phone and online meetings) and in-person tasks and meetings; all coordinated with local leaders and/or other OPSEU/SEFPO staff.
You will be compensated for your work. Organizer training will be provided.
Primary Duties
- Engage, inspire, and organize members assigned to you
- Build comprehensive member lists to help map workplaces
- Identify, recruit, and support assigned member leaders
- Lead and organize phone banks, as well as coordinated in-person activities to find and recruit potential member leaders
- Track and record organizing progress in digital databases
- Build relationships with existing and potential allies towards strategic goals
- Maintain consistent communication with the OPSEU/SEFPO staff
- Attend regular meetings with OPSEU/SEFPO staff
- Adhere to the OPSEU/SEFPO Statement of Respect, Policies, and the Constitution
- Represent OPSEU/SEFPO with integrity, diplomacy, and professionalism
Qualification/Criteria
- OPSEU/SEFPO members in good standing
- Preference will be given to current or recent College or University members, but all OPSEU/SEFPO members are welcome to apply
- Enthusiastic about talking to members and engaging them on issues, in person, by phone, or online
- Access to a phone and stable internet required
- Data management skills (working with data sheets in Google Sheets and PDFs) are required
- Maintain organized and detailed records of their work
- Technological competencies are required, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, Zoom, Google shared tools, and Microsoft Teams. Other digital tools may be used, although training will be provided
- Ability to be fluid and dynamic with changing priorities to meet strategic needs
- Take initiative to work independently and engage in a team environment
- Preferably have access to a vehicle and be comfortable with travel for work (less important in cities with good transit)
- Geographic coverage will be a key determinant factor to facilitate outreach
- French (and other) language skills are considered an asset
- Interest is paramount. While campaigning or organizing experience may be helpful, it is not a requirement. Training will be provided
We encourage all candidates from equity-deserving groups to self-identify on your application, as OPSEU/SEFPO has a commitment to equity and diversity.
Hours
Can be flexible based on candidate’s preference. Part-Time (minimum 10 h/week) up to Full-Time (35 h/week). Full-Time commitment is preferred.
Expense coverage
Certain expenses will be covered subject to approval by OPSEU/SEFPO Political Action and Education Division (PAED)