AFT Michigan

Field Representative

Based in Southeast Michigan
(requires travel across the state)

 

AFT Michigan is seeking an experienced and energized Field Representative to join our dynamic statewide union of educators and healthcare providers. Our team of staff works with approximately 100 local unions across the state to build strong locals, develop leaders, bargain and enforce contracts, organize, and work for social justice. The Field Representative will strengthen AFT Michigan locals, with a focus on higher education faculty and staff, by working with local leaders and other staff to:

• Develop and empower local leaders and activists to build strong locals and handle union responsibilities;
• Maintain and increase membership in an “open shop;”
• Negotiate contracts, including proposal development, contract campaigns and negotiations;
• Enforce contracts through grievance processing, including arbitration, and organizing worksite issue campaigns;
• Maintain solid local union foundations of financial, data, and governance systems;
• Form new bargaining units and negotiate first contracts;
• Present training and leadership development programs;
• Run local political and legislative campaigns in collaboration with community allies;
• Encourage member participation in political and legislative action, leadership development, professional issues and other union programs; and
• Build a stronger AFT Michigan and labor movement.

Qualifications:

• Independent project management skills
• Leadership development and training ability
• Ability to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds
• Ability to listen actively and frame issues
• Knowledge of organizing strategies, collective bargaining, and contract enforcement
• Experience in unions or other social justice organizations
• Engagement in the political process
• Demonstrated ability to write and speak effectively
• General computer literacy and proficiency in basic data management
• Willingness to work long hours and participate in union-wide activities
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Knowledge of higher education labor issues preferred

Competitive salary and excellent benefits commensurate with the collective bargaining agreement between AFT Michigan and the AFT Michigan Staff Union. This position is based in southeast Michigan but requires travel across the state.

HOW TO APPLY: 
Apply by submitting a cover letter highlighting your approach to building strong unions, résumé, and at least three references via email (with “AFT Michigan Field Rep” in the subject line) to ddobbie@aftmichigan.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning August 10, 2026.

AFT Michigan is an affirmative action employer. Women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.