Field Director

Michigan-AFL-CIO•Lansing, MI

2d•$60,000 - $70,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Field Director is responsible for leading the implementation of all AFL-CIO field activities and programs to advance labor’s goals in Michigan. The Field Director leads the field team within the Campaigns Department which has historically consisted of release staff from affiliated unions, Organizing Specialists and Training Specialists. The Field Director is based in Greater Lansing or Metro Detroit. The Field Director will report to the Campaigns Director of the Michigan AFL-CIO. The Field Director’s work plan will be determined by the Michigan AFL-CIO.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in labor studies or political science preferred.
3-5 years of experience in labor or community organizing, or 3-5 years of legislative or electoral campaign experience, including in a management or leadership position
Familiarity with and commitment to the labor movement and an understanding of labor’s goals
Strong time management and organizational skills are required, including a demonstrated ability to independently manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects in high-pressure situations and under difficult deadlines
Excellent communication skills are essential, including the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse ethnic, racial, age, gender, educational, occupational, and socio-economic backgrounds; the popular / labor education skills necessary to design and lead workshops aimed at leadership and volunteer development; the written communication skills necessary to produce newsletters, leaflets, basic phone and walk scripts, work plans, and project reports
Computer skills are required, including knowledge and extensive use of e-mail, Zoom, Teams, and Microsoft Office
A valid driver’s license, continuous use of a reliable vehicle, automobile liability insurance, and willingness to travel regularly
Occasional travel to other parts of the state and/or out-of-state may be necessary.
Overnight travel will be infrequent but may be required
Long work hours, some holiday work, and frequent participation in evening and weekend activities are required, and attendance at early morning calls or events will be expected

Responsibilities

Develop and execute agenda-driving direct member and/or general public contact plans for electoral, issue advocacy, and other campaigns
Identify, implement, and test new, effective internal and political organizing tactics and strategies to grow our reach
Strategically engage union leaders and activists through meaningful opportunities to participate in our programs
Supervise and help develop direct hires within the Department by fostering collaboration, holding them accountable to their work plans and goals, providing regular feedback, and supporting their professional development, all in accordance with Michigan AFL-CIO personnel policies
Supervise release staff within the Department when needed
Organize and execute visibility events, town halls, volunteer canvassing efforts, local direct actions and other tactics to amplify and elevate our issues
Update, monitor, and administer all Department tools, including but not limited to LAN, Action Builder, LUD, VIP/Pilot Light, the Working Families Toolkit, and various trackers and quantitative and qualitative reports
Serve in the place of the Campaigns Director as needed
Serve in the place of supervisee(s) as needed