Deadline for Applying: October 14, 2024 at 5pm
UAW 4121 is the union representing 8,500 academic workers (Postdocs, Research Scientists/Engineers and Academic Student Employees) at all three campuses of the University of Washington. We are seeking to hire up to an additional 0.5 FTE position dedicated to Postdoc membership outreach and engagement. These positions will support the ongoing work of the Local to build our collective power and advocate for fair working conditions, a stronger and more accessible higher education system, and social justice in our community and beyond.
Job responsibilities will include:
- Developing and implementing organizing strategies to increase membership involvement, with a particular focus on the Postdoc bargaining unit
- Working directly with other union members, including by mentoring stewards, organizers, and other active members on organizing campaigns and projects
- Supporting work groups and committees with their week-to-week work as well as developing organizing strategies
- Developing an in-depth knowledge of the Collective Bargaining Agreements and help ensure their implementation in the workplace
- Holding meetings with members online, as well as in person at work locations across the UW Campuses and across Seattle, depending on specific needs of the situation
- Helping plan and run orientations for new bargaining unit employees
- Other tasks as assigned by Local Union leadership
A qualified candidate will be able to demonstrate:
- Strong familiarity with workers represented by UAW Local 4121
- Strong motivation to protect and expand the rights of academic employees at UW
- Prior experience with workplace and/or community organizing for workers’ rights and social justice.
- The ability to communicate and work with people across diverse disciplines, linguistic backgrounds, workplaces, and identities at UW, as well as the ability to foster empowering and equitable group dynamics.
- Strong attention to detail, time management skills, and ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative group.
- A commitment to intersectional economic, racial and social justice, and solidarity with working people across diverse workplaces and sectors
- The ability to meet with union members, other staff, management, and others in a wide variety of locations (both remote and in person) each week. In-person work primarily takes place at UW Seattle campus and UW Medicine South Lake Union.
- The ability to quickly adjust plans and priorities in response to changing conditions and unforeseen events. Some work may take place outside of regular business hours.
- The ability to commit to employment through January 2025.
Requirements, Pay, and Benefits
Per Local Union Bylaws, these positions are only open to members of the Union who have been in continuous good standing for at least 1 year.
Pay and benefits, as set forth in the Local Union Bylaws (Article 20), are commensurate with the pay and benefits received by bargaining unit employees:
- Pay: Current hourly pay is the equivalent of the 2024-2025 Predoctoral Instructor rate of $43.56 / hour.
- Time off: Employees receive 20 days of vacation per year, and 7 days sick time for a full time equivalent, pro-rated for lower % FTEs.
- Health insurance: Those currently covered by GAIP are eligible to continue that coverage with premium costs reimbursed by the Local. Otherwise comparable health insurance coverage is provided (premiums covered 100%).
- Tuition and professional development: Opportunities for professional development may be available with the agreement of the Joint Council. Those currently eligible to receive UW tuition benefits but not receiving them from UW are eligible for tuition reimbursement at the same level as a 50% FTE ASE tuition waiver.
- Transit Pass: Those not already receiving a U-PASS from UW are eligible to receive a comparable free transit pass.
- Retirement: Employees also receive a 401(k) with matching benefits.
Application
To be considered for this position, please send via email a cover letter and resume to the Local Union by October 14 at 5pm Pacific time.
Email: personnel@uaw4121.org
Inquiries about the position may be directed to the Personnel Committee (personnel@uaw4121.org) or to Levin Kim (lkim@uaw4121.org).
UAW Local 4121 is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ community members are strongly encouraged to apply.