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Union Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Union Organizer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Developing strong chapter leadership and structure * Working with members to build a powerful political program * Involving members in bringing a union voice to more potential members * Working with ...

Cook

Manchester, NH · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Union Leader Reader's Choice 2026 Silver Award - Winner for Best Nursing Home!!! The Courville at Manchester is a Senior Healthcare Community in Manchester's North End. We are locally owned ...

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How much do union leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for union leader in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a union leader?

Union leaders are elected or appointed representatives who advocate for the interests of workers within a labor union. They negotiate with employers over wages, benefits, and working conditions, and help ensure that labor contracts are upheld. Union leaders also organize members, address grievances, and may be involved in broader labor movements or policy advocacy. Their primary goal is to protect and advance the rights of union members in the workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a union leader?

To thrive as a Union Leader, you need a deep understanding of labor laws, collective bargaining processes, and union governance, often supported by experience in labor relations or organizational leadership. Familiarity with negotiation software, case management systems, and relevant legal or labor certifications is highly beneficial. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and advocacy skills are essential soft skills for motivating members and representing their interests. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively protecting workers' rights, negotiating contracts, and fostering unity within the workforce.

What are some common challenges faced by union leaders when representing members during negotiations?

Union leaders often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse member interests, maintaining clear communication with both members and management, and staying up-to-date with labor laws and regulations. During negotiations, they must advocate strongly for member needs while finding practical solutions that can be agreed upon by both parties. Navigating these complexities requires strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of contract language and workplace dynamics.

What is the difference between Union Leader vs Union Organizer?

AspectUnion LeaderUnion Organizer
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required, but leadership experience helpsOften requires knowledge of labor laws and organizing skills, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads union meetings, negotiates contracts, manages union activitiesRecruits members, plans campaigns, conducts outreach
Employer & Industry UsageFound in various industries, focusing on union governanceActive in labor campaigns, often in the early stages of union formation

Union Leaders focus on managing and representing union members, while Union Organizers concentrate on recruiting members and building union strength. Both roles are essential in the labor movement but differ in responsibilities and daily activities.

How do you become a union leader?

To become a union leader, individuals typically gain experience by working in a unionized environment and demonstrating leadership skills. They often start as union representatives or stewards, participate in union activities, and may need to be elected or appointed by union members. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of labor laws are essential for advancement.
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Cities with the most Union Leader job openings:

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What states have the most Union Leader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Union Leader jobs include:

Infographic showing various Union Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

About SEIU-USWW:
The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) is our country's fastest growing labor union with more than 2 million members. We have been on the cutting edge of building the power of low-wage workers in service industries and in leading the fight for social justice on issues such as health care, immigration, racial equity, gender equity, and the environment. SEIU United Service Workers West (SEIU-USWW) represents over 45,000 property service workers across California. Our union brings together janitors, security officers, residential, stadium, arena and airport workers. Our mission is to lead the way to a more just and humane society; building power for all service workers by developing member leadership and activism, winning strong contracts, organizing unorganized service workers, building political and community power, and engaging in direct action that demonstrates our strength and determination to win.


POSITION SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES: Working under the direction of the Organizing Director, this individual will be part of the External Organizing Department, which works to organize thousands of workers in California to join our union, engage workers to make gains in the workplace and to address larger social/political issues in their communities.

Examples of Duties:

  • Work with leaders and committees to educate, agitate and motivate workers into action
  • Identify, recruit, train and develop worker leaders, stewards and worker-led committees.
  • Contribute to campaign planning & execution in collaboration with fellow organizers, communicators & researchers.
  • Planning, mobilization and turnout for worksite actions, union events, marches, etc.
  • Conduct one-on-ones, site visits and worker-led committee meetings.
  • Maintain database with accurate and detailed information on worksites, individual workers and assignments.
  • Prepare and manage workplans, calendars, files and records.
  • Effectively communicate and engage members in union political program and activity.
  • Perform other tasks and duties as assigned. Work to support other key local union priorities, as

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS: Equivalent experience in labor & community organizing that would provide for the following knowledge of, skills & abilities OR Graduation from an accredited college or university in relevant field.

  • Proven commitment to social and economic justice and improving the lives of working people.
  • Experience working on campaigns with a labor union, public policy, or non-profit organization.
  • Knowledge of union organizing practice and principles.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a fast-paced and diverse team environment.
  • Ability to effectively plan and implement work and manage time, as part of a team and individually.
  • Demonstrated ability to clearly convey information and ideas both verbally and in writing across audiences.
  • Computer proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Gmail, social media platforms, database & teleconferencing.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to travel, work extended and irregular hours, and work off-site.
  • Valid driver's license, use of a car for work, and specified automobile insurance coverage are mandatory.

  • Bilingual English/Spanish (written & verbal) is preferred but not required.

  • All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and report their vaccination status as a condition of employment.

  • All employees must abide by USWW Safety Guidelines, including the required use of face-covering while working.

SALARY & BENEFITS:

  • Salary is competitive and negotiable based on experience. (Based on Staff Union Contract)
  • Full benefits package including health insurance, dental, vision, a pension plan and paid time off.

SEIU USWW is an affirmative action employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion or disability.