SEIU Local 1 has been on the forefront of using our collective strength to create a pathway for non-union workers to join the union and build power for service sector workers like janitors, security officers, airport workers, residential workers etc. Local 1 has a strong track record of winning better working conditions, benefits, and wages for workers both in and outside the union. Our diverse union comes together in solidarity to fight to improve our communities and in the larger social justice issues  such as immigrant, racial, LGBTQ+, environmental, and economic justice. 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

SEIU Local 1 is seeking a Deputy Political Director to assist with the political and community work. Priorities and the Union's mission, goals, and values. The goal is to work with our membership, elected, and community leaders to strengthen our political and community program.

KEY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with the Political Director to develop and implement the union’s political agenda at the federal, state, and local level.

• Plan and coordinate campaign field activities, lobby visits, phone banking and other events for our public policy and legislative campaigns at the federal, state and city level.

• Represent Local 1 in meetings and conversations with high level elected, faith and community leaders at all levels of government, other SEIU Local political operatives, SEIU National political staff and officers, and other unions as needed.

• Build SEIU Local 1 Internal Political Capacity among our staff and members.

• Drive Local1 COPE (Committee On Political Education) program with staff and members.

• Anchor and drive work to involve community allies in our internal and external campaigns.

• Build political and community support for organizing projects and political or issue campaigns.

• Plan and execute city/county/state specific political strategy build power and bring home organizing victories.

• Develop and implement political field actions and operations as needed by campaigns.

• Advice on allocation of funds for political education and programming, campaigns, and other city/state specific political funding decisions.

• ​Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrated ability to lead and represent from an organizational perspective.

• At least four years of experience in labor, politics, or community organizing.

• Some pre-existing understanding of the political/community landscape in Chicago and Springfield.

• Proficient in VAN (Voter Activation Network)

• Willingness to work long and irregular hours, including nights and weekends.

• The ability to make and follow through on a work plan in a timely effective manner.

• Ability to facilitate collaboration between labor and community stakeholders.

• Capacity to work independently, with a team, and with people from diverse backgrounds.

• Sharp written and verbal communications skills

• Willingness to conduct house visits and site visits.

• Previous experience in union or community organizing is desirable.

• A demonstrated commitment to social justice is required.

• Fluency in a second language is a plus.

• A car and a valid driver’s license are required.

SALARY & BENEFITS

• The salary is competitive and negotiable ranging from $90,000-$100,000.

• Full benefits package includes employer – paid health insurance, dental, a pension plan and paid vacation.

• Additional benefits include phone allowance, tuition reimbursement and other benefits.