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Union Organizing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Counsel, US Employment

Arlington, VA

$160K - $218K/yr

Provide counsel on labor relations matters, including collective bargaining agreements, grievances, arbitrations, union organizing activity, and proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board ...

New

We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees. Scope: The Temporary Field Organizer is responsible for engaging and motivating ...

Field Organizer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$36K - $38K/mo

We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees. Scope: The Temporary Field Organizer is responsible for engaging and motivating ...

Union Finisher

Sterling, VA · On-site

$30/hr

As a Union Finisher, your primary daily responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited ... Keep tools and workspace organized. * Must be conscious of time schedules and deadlines. * Maintain ...

As a Union Finisher, your primary daily responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited ... Keep tools and workspace organized. * Must be conscious of time schedules and deadlines. * Maintain ...

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Union Organizing information

What does a union organizer do in a union?

A union organizer recruits and educates workers to join a union, helps build support for collective bargaining, and assists in organizing campaigns. They often conduct meetings, distribute materials, and work to address workers' concerns to strengthen union membership.

Do union organizers make good money?

Union organizers typically earn a median salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union size. Compensation may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and some roles offer opportunities for overtime or bonuses. The job often requires strong communication skills and knowledge of labor laws.

What is the difference between Union Organizing vs Labor Relations Specialist?

AspectUnion OrganizingLabor Relations Specialist
Primary FocusRecruiting employees to join a union and establishing union presenceManaging employer-employee relations, negotiations, and compliance
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, union campaigns, employee meetingsOffice-based, HR departments, negotiation settings
Required CredentialsLabor rights knowledge, communication skills, sometimes union trainingHR or labor relations certifications, relevant experience

While both roles involve labor issues, Union Organizing focuses on building union support among employees, whereas Labor Relations Specialists handle ongoing employer-employee relations and negotiations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer needs in the labor industry.

What are some common challenges faced by union organizers when building support among workers?

Union organizers often encounter challenges such as overcoming worker hesitancy, addressing misinformation about unions, and navigating employer resistance. Building trust with employees is essential, as many may be uncertain about the benefits of unionization or fear retaliation. Organizers must also adapt their strategies to different workplaces and effectively communicate the value of collective bargaining. Collaboration with existing union members and clear, consistent communication are key to building strong support.

How can I become a union organizer?

To become a union organizer, individuals typically gain experience in labor rights, advocacy, or related fields, often through entry-level positions or internships with unions or labor organizations. Developing strong communication, negotiation, and organizing skills is essential, and some roles may require knowledge of labor laws or certifications in labor studies. Building a network within the labor movement can also improve chances of entering the field.

What is union organizing?

Union organizing is the process of bringing workers together to form a labor union or join an existing one. The goal is to collectively bargain with employers for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Organizers educate employees about their rights, build support, and help guide them through the legal steps required to establish union representation. This process can involve meetings, campaigns, and sometimes elections overseen by labor boards. Successful union organizing empowers workers to have a stronger collective voice in the workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a union organizer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Organizer, you need a solid understanding of labor laws, collective bargaining processes, and organizing strategies, often supported by experience in labor relations or social activism. Familiarity with database management tools, communication platforms, and campaign management systems is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, persuasive communication, and resilience help organizers build trust and mobilize workers effectively. These abilities are crucial for advancing workers' rights, fostering solidarity, and achieving successful organizing campaigns.
What are the most commonly searched types of Organizing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Organizing jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Organizing jobs in Virginia? For Union Organizing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Union Organizing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Union Organizing job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Organizing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Status: Part-time (15 hours per week) Temporary position from July 1, 2026 - July 1, 2027

Based in Northern Virginia

Reports to: Director of Organizing


About FCFT

FCFT is a union representing the operational and instructional workers of Fairfax County Public Schools including transportation, custodial, instructional, maintenance and trades, food service, and clerical staff.

Position Summary

The Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT) is seeking a part-time Community Organizer to engage parents and community leaders in collective action. This role will focus on improving the culture and climate of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) while building community power across Fairfax County.

This is a grassroots, on-the-ground organizing position ideal for someone passionate about public education, worker power, and community-led change. Union organizing experience is strongly preferred

Key Responsibilities

  • Organize and mobilize parents and community members to participate in FCFT campaigns and actions
  • Build and maintain relationships through one-on-one meetings, site visits, and community outreach
  • Attend and support regular meetings with community members and FCFT staff to plan strategy and assess progress
  • Identify, develop, and support emerging community leaders
  • Track outreach, assessments, and engagement data in a database regularly
  • Execute organizing plans and activities in alignment with campaign goals
  • Support efforts to grow community engagement and collective power

Required Qualifications

  • 1+ years of organizing or education experience, or related work experience
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a deep commitment to active listening
  • Commitment to social and economic justice and equitable access to public education
  • Ability to work independently while taking direction and incorporating feedback
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Comfort with basic computer and web-based tools
  • Willingness to work flexible and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends
  • Valid driver's license and access to an insured vehicle
  • Demonstrated ability to work with diverse communities

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in community, student, political, or labor organizing
  • Familiarity with public education systems, budgets, or labor campaigns
  • Background in public education advocacy
  • Multilingual abilities
  • Familiarity with Northern Virginia communities

Core Competencies

  • Relationship-building and trust-based organizing
  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving
  • Clear and effective communication
  • Accountability and follow-through
  • Adaptability in fast-paced, community-centered environments

Salary and Benefits:
The salary for the position is $25 an hour for 15 hours a week. Benefits include mileage and expense reimbursements.

How to Apply

Please submit:

  • A cover letter describing your interest in building worker power in Fairfax County, including examples of organizing work or campaigns you've contributed to (and your role in those efforts)
  • Your resume
  • Three professional references



At FCFT,we value a diverse, inclusive workforce, and weprovide equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. We welcome applicants with a range of experiences and encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all qualifications listed.