POLITICAL COORDINATOR

Based in Los Angeles, CA

We are Service Employees International Union, Local 99—Education Workers United. We represent over 50,000 education workers in K-12 schools, community colleges, early education centers and homes. We are looking for energetic, hard-working staff who are committed to real change, who believe in the value of public education, and who want to be part of the team that wins for workers, their families, and their communities.

DEFINITION The Political Coordinator reports to the Government Relations Director and is responsible for a broad range of program objectives to build and strengthen our political infrastructure and engage our members to be a powerful force in the legislative process, in the community and at the ballot box.

TYPICAL DUTIES

• Mobilize members to participate in the local’s electoral program for local, state and federal elections.
• Provide support to staff for training, leadership development and coordination of member political activists for electoral campaigns, issue campaigns and legislative meetings and other union activities.
• Track and encourage increased member participation.
• Empower the membership to build effective advocacy relationships with elected officials.
• Work with multiple levels of staff and members to develop goals and execute plans for members participation in candidate interviews, lobby days, town hall meetings, elected official accountability activities, voter registration drives, vote-by-mail and GOTV activities.
• Provide staff support to our Committee On Political Engagement (COPE);
• Organize grassroots lobbying efforts of staff, member leaders, and activists to give workers a voice in the legislative process on local, state, and federal issues.
• Monitor local politics and policy issues and identifies opportunities to grow worker power and elect champions of our members’ issues.
• Plan and manage multiple campaigns and projects simultaneously in a high-pressure environment requiring rapid adjustment to changing priorities and strategies.
• Works with and supports the other members of the GR team to achieve the goals of the Local.  

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS AMONG RELATED CLASSES

Responsible for working with staff to implement the Local’s electoral, legislative, and policy program

SUPERVISION

Works under the supervision of the Government Relations Director.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Local, state and national political environment
• Electoral campaigns
• Protocol when dealing with elected and appointed officials
• Policies and legislation pertaining to education workers and public employees

 

ABILITIES:

• Create and implement member ran electoral and issue advocacy campaigns.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to mentor, motivate, lead, build strong working relationships and hold others accountable.
• Contribute to creating a positive work environment that encourages personal responsibility, initiative and innovation.
• Self-motivated, great attitude and strong team player.
• Strong sense of professionalism and integrity.
• Good judgment, discerning priorities when faced with many tasks
• Proven ability to work with diverse group of people, from union members to union staff and leaders to elected officials to other community and issue stakeholders.
• An understanding of political data systems and managing data.
• Fluency in a second language is desirable.
• Handles politically sensitive situations with grace and can de-escalate highly volatile political situations.

ENTRANCE QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or extensive (5 years) experience in politics

  Experience:

  • Minimum of three (3) years legislative, political organizing, or campaign experience with a labor union, state or local agency or association, non-profit community organization or progressive elected official

    REQUIREMENTS

  • Commitment to social and economic justice of all working people and strengthening the role of organized labor through work actions, community relations and political activity
  • Travel and work long, varied hours including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Own or lease vehicle and maintain valid California’s drivers’ license and insurance policy
  • Drive, walk or sit for long periods of time.

    CLASSIFICATION: Exempt, Salaried

    This job description is not a complete statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skill, and abilities. Management retains the discretion to add or change typical duties of a position at any time.

    Salary and Benefits: The current salary range is $80,000 - $90,000 and is based on qualifications and experience. SEIU Local 99 offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package. Including fully employer-paid family health coverage (including domestic partners and dependents), life insurance, a defined-benefit pension plan, 401(k) plan, auto stipend and generous paid leave time.

    To Apply:

    Send cover letter and résumé

Posted On: Friday, April 18, 2025
Compensation: $80,000 - 90,000