Union Representative

Are you a Union Representative that empowers workers and represents their rights?

UFCW is looking for a Member Representative, like YOU, to join their growing team.

UFCW 1518’s Union Representative works on the front lines to engage members, stewards, and activities to defend and promote the rights of workers. Reporting to the Senior Director, Bargaining & Services, you will deliver fair representation, support, and education to members as they navigate the collective agreement and bargaining process.

This position is located out of and includes coverage of the Lower Mainland area and requires travel to members and organizations.

Why UFCW 1518?

UFCW 1518 fights for fairness for its 28,000 members across diverse sectors, like community health, retail and industrial. Your contributions will be integral to achieving to championing workplace justice, increased wages, and better working conditions for everyone we represent.

As a joining member of our team, you can expect:

• Competitive compensation package to reward you and your contributions.
• Extended health benefits and dental plan to take care of you and your family.
• Flexible hybrid role with the chance to collaborate with colleagues and work remotely.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Grievance Handling. You’ll have the opportunity to research, represent and present Stage I & II Grievances at arbitrations and Labour Board hearings.
• Member Representation. Foster relationships with workers, management, and the community with workplace visits. You’ll earn the chance to foster positive labor relations and advocate for members when it comes to health & safety, human rights, political action, and duty to accommodate.
• Member Engagement. Leverage your leadership capabilities to mentor and train stewards, recruit new members and deliver union training.
• Collective Bargaining. Act as a spokesperson in negotiations and strategic bargaining discussions. You will work with member bargaining committees to research and develop bargaining proposals, while interpreting, administering, and enforcing collective agreements.
• Database Reporting & Accountability. Track and proactively maintain UFCW 1518’s database with member information and labor-relations processes.
• Projects & Joint Committees. Draft contracts for upcoming projects and union representation. Use your expertise to ensure compliance and recruit members for participation on Joint Committees.
• Organizing Unions. Connect with unorganized workplaces and campaign for certificationby canvassing and educating workers about union membership.

What You Bring to the Table

• 2 – 5 experiences as a Union Representative and/or steward
• University degree or college diploma in Labour Studies or any related field.
• Understanding of labour legislation and processes, such as BC Labour Relations Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Employment Standards Act.
• Technically versed in Microsoft Office Suite, performing Internet and Intranet searches, and uploading documents.
• You have a BC driver’s license and are able to drive a vehicle to travel throughout BC and Canada.
• You’re an adaptable communicator and public speaker to earn trust, confidence, and respect of members in both friendly and hostile groups.
• Ability to work effectively with people at all levels within the union, employer groups, and other organizations.
• You’re a natural leader with the ability to inspire, engage, direct and mentor both members and employers.
• Ability to leverage creative problem solving, risk assessment and critical thinking to work independently with little supervision.
• You’re an active listener that responds in a decisive, positive, and proactive way to member issues and concerns.
• Experience at the bargaining table and achieving settlements.

Nice to Haves

The role requires discretion, political judgement, and a broad understanding of the labour movement in British Columbia.

Proficiency in English with fluency in a second language is a desirable skill.

Compensation:

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
• Starting salary of $104k, with increases to $119k upon successful completion of 12 months of service
• Extended health, dental, group life, LTD and ADD plans that values the well-being of you and your family (subject to standard wait time)
• Eligibility for our Pension Plan to ensure financial security down the road
• Generous paid time-off, starting with 20 vacation days, accrued personal time off, and statutory holidays to prioritize work-life balance

If this sounds like what you’re looking for in your next opportunity, we want to hear from you! Apply with your resume and cover letter today.

UFCW 1518 is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. People with disabilities, BIPOC, immigrants, women, and LGBTQ2S+ people are encouraged to apply. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process by contacting Careers@ufcw1518.com