Union Representative / Labor-Relations Specialist (UniServ Representative)

Connecticut Education Association
an affiliate of the National Education Association

Union Representative / Labor-Relations Specialist (UniServ Representative)

Based in Connecticut

About Us: 
The Connecticut Education Association (CEA) is a dedicated educators’ labor union whose mission is to champion educators, students, and public schools. We have been a leading voice for teacher professionalism and school improvement since our formation in 1848. 

The Connecticut Education Association (CEA) is seeking an applicant for the position of UniServ Representative (Union Representative/Labor-Relations Specialist) . 

CEA is looking for an individual who possesses strong union organizing and project management skills, works well in a team environment, and effectively monitors and addresses the needs of the members they serve. The ideal candidate will be creative, flexible, and enjoy performing a wide variety of tasks. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 
Organizing and Member Engagement 

• Actively organize and involve members around professional, contractual, and legislative issues. 
• Support and mobilize members to participate in campaigns, rallies, and advocacy efforts that advance CEA’s mission. 
• Build strong relationships with local leaders and members to strengthen union capacity and engagement. 

Collective Bargaining and Contract Enforcement

• Provide technical assistance and guidance in contract negotiations, including preparation, strategy development, and settlement. 
• Assist locals in processing grievances, arbitration, and enforcement of collective bargaining agreements. 
• Interpret contract language and provide training to members and leaders on contract rights and obligations.

Leadership Development and Training 

• Develop and deliver workshops for members, local leaders, and association staff on organizing strategies, leadership skills, and union best practices.
• Coach and mentor local leaders to build sustainable leadership structures within associations.
• Promote a culture of organizing by empowering members to take ownership of union goals and initiatives. 

Research, Advocacy, and Representation 

• Monitor, analyze, and address workplace and education policy trends affecting CEA members.
• Represent and advocate for members before local boards of education, state agencies, and other governing bodies.
• Collaborate with CEA colleagues to support legislative and political action efforts.

Campaigns, Projects, and Collaboration

• Work as part of a statewide team to plan and execute organizing campaigns, member outreach projects, and strategic initiatives. 
• Contribute to the development of strategies that build member power and advance collective goals.
• Participate in cross-departmental projects and statewide CEA programs.

Administrative and Reporting 

• Maintain accurate records of activities, grievances and negotiations. 
• Prepare reports, updates and communications for internal and external audiences. 
• Perform other duties and responsibilities assigned by leadership. 

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Union Organizing and Advocacy – Demonstrated ability to organize, involve, and mobilize members around workplace, professional, and legislative issues.
• Collective Bargaining Expertise – Knowledge of labor law, grievance procedures, arbitration, and contract negotiations, with experience supporting or leading these processes. 
• Project and Time Management – Ability to manage a high volume of work with efficiency; can develop systems to keep tasks on track, juggle competing demands, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines without sacrificing quality
• Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving – Strong capacity to analyze issues, anticipate challenges, and develop pragmatic, equitable solutions that advance organizational goals.
• Leadership and Facilitation – Proven skills in building leadership among members, facilitating dialogue, coaching, and mentoring local leaders to achieve shared results. 
• Communication Skills – Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to translate complex issues, lead trainings, write clear reports, and present effectively to varied audiences. 
• Collaboration and Relationship-Building – Ability to build authentic relationships with diverse stakeholders, work well in teams, and foster cooperation across organizational lines. 
• Commitment to Equity and Inclusion – Demonstrated sensitivity to cultural, racial, and social differences; experience supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
• Flexibility and Resilience – Adaptability in fast-paced environments; able to bounce back from setbacks, take ownership of outcomes, and persist in advancing union goals. 
• Technology Skills – Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, databases, and digital organizing tools; ability to learn new systems as needed. 
• Work Schedule – Willingness to work long hours, including evenings and weekends, and travel extensively throughout Connecticut. 

Education: 

• Bachelor’s Degree is required. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge and experience of labor and/or community organizing. 
• Knowledge and experience in collective bargaining. 
• Knowledge and experience in grievance adjudication. 
• Knowledge and experience in political and legislative organizing. 
• Knowledge and experience in conducting leadership training programs. 
• Employment or leadership experience in all advocacy organizations such as national or state education associations, or other labor organizations, or community organizations. 

Reports To: 

• Directors of Affiliate Services & Member Training

Pay and Benefits: 
The salary range is $113,120 – $170,491, commensurate with experience and in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) and pension plan; 16 paid holidays; as well as vacation and sick time. 

Equal Opportunity: 
CEA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a workplace culture rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who identify as people of color, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, veterans, and others from historically underrepresented backgrounds. 

To Apply:
Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process should contact Latisha Billups at View email address on unionjobs.com .

Otherwise, all external applications should be submitted via ADP, through our careers page HERE .

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