GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER
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 Reports to the Government Relations Director and focuses on monitoring, developing, and supporting the implementation of policies/legislation that improves the quality of life for Local 99 members and the children and communities we serve. The Government & Community Relations Manager is also responsible for the development of education community based coalitions to support the work of the union. They will work with staff and members on a wide variety of community, electoral and issue campaigns. This position is responsible for the on-going assessment of members' issues to develop strategic plans to support the vision and presence of members.
TYPICAL DUTIES
? Monitors and supports implementation of key education policy/legislative developments in Local 99 jurisdictions and builds SEIU presence with policies and legislative opportunities;
? Leads and drives the planning, development, and implementation of strategies to pass, defeat, or amend motions and resolutions impacting Local 99 members;
? Contributes to the formulation of SEIU Local 99’s position on proposed legislation based on its impact on our members;
? Develops and executes issue based and electoral campaigns;
? Represents SEIU Local 99 in coalition meetings at the state and local level;
? Builds education coalitions by identifying and developing working partnerships with early education, TK-12 education and community groups to expand SEIU resources and presence;
? Provides on-going assessment of community relations with key community and political allies in order to develop strategic plans to support the vision of the Local;
? Works with with staff to identify and engage members in communicating and participating in community, electoral and legislative campaigns;
? Evaluates and assesses program effectiveness.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS AMONG RELATED CLASSES
Responsible for working with external partners and electeds to implement the Local’s electoral, legislative, and policy program.
SUPERVISION
Works under the supervision of the Government Relations Director
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
? California’s educational administration, budget and funding streams;
? Local, state and national political environment;
? Possesses a foundation of legislative processes at the city, county, state, and/or federal government levels;
? Issue-based campaigns;
? Protocol when dealing with elected and appointed officials;
? Policies and legislation pertaining to education workers and public employees.
Abilities:
? Work effectively with legislators, lobbyists, District personnel, community and students using tact and good judgment;
? 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;
? Discern priorities and meet competing deadlines;
? Good judgment, discerning priorities when faced with many tasks;
? An understanding of political data systems and managing data;
? 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;
? 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 (10 years) experience in politics.
Experience:
? Minimum of seven (7) 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 $90,000 - $98,000 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 dependants), life insurance, a defined-benefit pension plan, 401(k) plan, auto stipend and generous paid leave time.
To Apply:
Send cover letter and résumé