UNITE HERE Local 23 is currently seeking a Worker Advocate for our Worker Resource and Action Center in Washington, DC. We represent approximately 8,000 service sector workers in Washington, DC, Georgia, North Carolina, Colorado, and Indiana.

UNITE HERE Local 23 has a strong internal organizing structure through which members act to protect the standards they have fought for, enforce the current contract, grow our membership and continue moving service sector workers forward in wages and other benefits. The Worker Advocate trains, advises and supports Shop Stewards as they face workplace challenges.

Position Responsibilities Include (but not limited to):
• Respond to phone calls from members and shop stewards who wish to file grievances, and advise them on how to deal with shop floor problems
• Develop thorough understanding of the CBAs, and answer questions regarding grievances or other aspects of the collective bargaining agreements
• Prepare grievances for arbitration
• Train and develop shop stewards through the process of addressing grievances and other worksite issues
• Work with on-site Union Representatives on worksite issues
• Develop internal organizing programs with the on-site team
• File, track and monitor grievances

Advancement
This position offers good prospects for advancement. Resourceful and committed staff members who become familiar with the union's operations and distinguish themselves will have numerous opportunities for rewarding and interesting work.

Desired Qualifications:
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice and building a strong labor movement;
• Experience with internal organizing generally, and specifically, with handling grievances in a way that builds member solidarity and power within and between workplaces;
• Resourcefulness and talent for problem-solving;
• Reliability, flexibility and a cooperative attitude;
• Ability and motivation to learn quickly and grow into positions of greater responsibility;
• Ability to communicate respectfully and comfortably with people from diverse backgrounds;
• Ability to multitask, work efficiently, and maintain files in an organized manner;
• Willingness to spend a time away from the Washington, DC area on assignments in other regions.
• Ability to multitask, work efficiently, maintain files in an organized manner
• Good reading and writing skills
• Good analytical skills and attention to details
• Ability to work well independently
• Willingness to work long hours, often on short notice.

Extra consideration will be given to candidates who possess any of the following:
• Bilingual (in addition to English), especially in Spanish and Amharic
• Ability to write persuasively, clearly, and concisely
• Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new computer programs quickly
• Knowledge of Access, Microsoft Office
• Experience developing and maintaining databases
• Experience working in the hotel, restaurant, hospitality, or other service industries

Application Instructions:
In addition to a resume and references, applicants must include a cover letter. The cover letter should explain the reasons for your interest in the position, and specify (with appropriate explanation) which of each of the listed qualifications you possess.

Email cover letter, resume, and three references to: chendricks@unitehere.org