Description

Overview

The Regional Political Organizer is primarily responsible for engaging NYSUT’s members and strengthening Locals in NYSUT’s Legislative and Political Action objectives.   The position reports to and works under the direct supervision of the Political Director.

 Primary Responsibilities

•         Mobilize and educate NYSUT members around political issues, legislative and electoral campaigns.  Develop and execute new strategies to engage members 
•         Organize and track member voter registration and turnout in electoral campaigns, utilizing technology when appropriate.
•         Educate and engage members around PAC Fundraising (Vote-Cope) Campaigns. 
•         Coordinate objectives and Campaigns with NYSUT PAC, Vote-Cope Coordinators, Regional Staff Directors (RSD), Labor Relations Specialists (LRS), Legislative Representatives, Board Members and Local Presidents.  Facilitate Regional Political Action Teams.
•         Together with PAC Coordinators plan and execute member mobilization activities in support of NYSUT endorsed candidates, legislation and issue campaigns.
•         Recruit and prepare members to speak at press events on behalf of the Union at legislative hearings, electoral campaign events and other political activities.
•         Help manage in-district lobbying activities, recruit and train members to attend meetings with their elected officials, attend meetings with NYSUT members.
•         Establish and maintain relationships, lead in coalition building with community groups on behalf of the union.
•         Raise Leader awareness of existing NYSUT programs and materials as readily available resources to engage members.
•         Recruit and train NYSUT members to run for elected office as part of NYSUT’s Candidate Pipeline Training.

        Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

•         A strong and proven background in union organizing, progressive politics and or political campaigns with an emphasis on field organizing.
•         Must be able to plan and manage multiple campaigns and projects with the ability to adjust to changing priorities and strategies
•         Bachelor’s Degree in Labor Studies /Political Science or 5+ years Union or Political Organizing experience preferred
•         Travel as needed. Long hours including weekends and evenings will be required when needed to meet the demands of the position especially during electoral campaigns.
•         Must possess solid verbal communication, writing and Social Media expertise
•         Experience with event turnout, volunteer recruitment and mobilization
•         Familiarity with the Voter Action Network (VAN), the Action Network, or other similar platforms  plus.
•         Knowledgeable of contemporary political, legislative and labor issues and current events including electoral districts and Representatives.
•         Familiarity with the Regional Healthcare and Education.
•         Solid computer skills including Microsoft Office.
•         Knowledge of and a commitment to the American Labor Movement