Part-Time Organizer – Contract

Durham Region Labour Council is seeking a contract part-time Organizer.

Applicants are invited to apply for the position by May 30th at 5:00pm. 

Durham Region Labour Council (DRLC) comprises almost 70,000 workers and their affiliated unions across Durham Region. DRLC members work at food stores, offices, plants, in public services, construction and much more. The labour council brings these members together every month for regular meetings, and carries out events and activities between meetings. The Labour Council shapes the local political landscape by adding labour’s voice to issues that affect unionized and non-unionized workers. As a voice for progressive change, social and economic justice, equality and workers’ rights, the Labour Council plays a significant role in the community of Durham Region. 

We are a chartered body of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), representing 3.5 million unionized Canadians. Durham Region Labour Council has been the voice of working people in Durham Region since 1942. 

We are looking for someone willing to build and grow a democratic union culture while working under the supervision of the Executive and in close collaboration with a diverse membership.

Position Summary 

The Organizer is responsible for working with the Durham Region Labour Council President and Staff on all aspects of the organization’s work in delivering organizing strategies with impact to help advance initiatives that build union strength. This position provides support to the President, and Executive Board.

Applicants should have a very good knowledge of organizing principles and be able to perform with accuracy and minimum supervision, the following duties, among others:

• Increase member involvement in meetings/events/educationals by working with affiliated unions, DRLC Executive and staff, and CLC staff
• Connect with unions and members to discuss ongoing campaigns
• Deliver workshops and training for local union representatives on community

engagement, organizing strategies and on topics of common concern

• Coordinate campaign event, canvasses, lobbying in partnership with current staff and DRLC president for municipal, provincial and federal elections
• Assist with connecting unaffiliated union locals in the Durham Region with the DRLC Executive
• Coordinate with local affiliates support for affiliate campaigns and strike action
• Build alliances within Durham Region between different community groups on issues relevant to workers in Durham Region
• Staying up to date with local community events, ensuring representation from Durham Region Labour Council
• Coordinate with outside organization like the Workers Action Centre, Acorn and others on progressive campaigns
• Work with key stakeholders to develop engagement plans and strategies that build trust and foster open and transparent relationships.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Equivalent combination of education and/or relevant on-the-job experience. 

Experience 

• A minimum two-four years experience working in a similar setting, preferably in a nonprofit unionized organization. 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities 

• Strong experience in union, political or community organizing 
• Strong knowledge of the labour movement 
• Ability managing projects, organizing meetings and events 
• Able to carry out work with a minimal amount of supervision 
• Detail-oriented with strong administrative and problem-solving skills  
• Effective planning and time management skills, able to balance and set priorities among competing and changing deadlines 
• Innovative, adaptable, and able to manage change 
• Strong written and oral communications skills in English – a second language is an asset 
• A professional and courteous approach and ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information 
• Able to work evenings and weekends when required  
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, Outlook) and virtual meeting tools (Zoom, Google Meet etc.) 
• Proficient with databases 
• Ability to communicate clearly, listen accurately, demonstrate sensitivity to others and an openness to receiving/giving constructive feedback 
• Able to work independently and collaborate effectively in a team environment, foster a respectful and safe workplace 
• A commitment to solidarity and understanding of the role of unions in the movement for social and economic justice 
• A commitment to the Labour Council’s equity and anti-racism goals. 

Conditions of employment are set out in the Collective Agreement between Durham Region Labour Council and UFCW, Local 175. 

Hourly Rate: 32.78/hr. Conditions of employment are set out in the collective agreement between Durham Region Labour Council and UFCW, Local 175. 

Hours: 10 hours per week with your schedule to be determined by mutual agreement and consistent with operational requirements.

Start Date: To be determined

End Date: December 2025

Location: Independent work is mostly remote, some meetings may be required; travel may be required within the Durham Region; work is central to Durham Region, Ontario.  

Applications:   Persons interested should send their resume and cover letter to durhamlc@durhamlabour.ca. Please include 2 references and subject line: APPLICATION FOR ORGANIZER POSITION. Applications will be accepted via e-mail no later than May 30th at 5:00pm. We thank everyone who takes the time to apply but only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Union members and retirees are encouraged to identify as such in their cover letter. 

Durham Region Labour Council is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals without discrimination.

Durham Region Labour Council is committed to developing inclusive, barrier-free selection processes and work environments. If contacted in relation to an employment opportunity, accommodations which would enable you to be interviewed in a fair and equitable manner are available on request. Information received relating to accommodations will be addressed confidentially.