Member Representative – Kelowna (Temporary 1-Year)

Ufcw1518; Kelowna; Hybrid; CAD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extended health & dental benefits

Hybrid work environment

Work-life balance

Job summary

UFCW 1518 is seeking a full-time, temporary Member Representative to support members in Kelowna and surrounding areas. The role involves engaging members, stewards, and activities to defend workers' rights and navigate the collective agreement process.

You will report to the Senior Director, Bargaining & Services, delivering fair representation, education, and advocacy while handling grievances, bargaining participation, and union mobilization within a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• 2–5 experiences as a Union Representative and/or steward.
• University degree or college diploma in Labour Studies or related field.
• Understanding of labour legislation and processes (BC Labour Relations Act, OHSA, Employment Standards Act).
• Technically versed in Microsoft Office Suite, internet searches, and uploading documents.
• Have a BC driver’s license and be able to travel across BC and Canada.
• Adaptable communicator and public speaker to earn trust with members in diverse groups.
• Ability to work with people at all levels within the union and with employers.
• Natural leader with ability to inspire, engage, and mentor members and employers.
• Creative problem solving, risk assessment, and critical thinking to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Grievance Handling: research, represent, and present Stage I & II grievances at arbitrations and Labour Board hearings.
• Member Representation: foster relationships with workers, management, and community; advocate on health & safety, human rights, and accommodation.
• Member Engagement: mentor and train stewards, recruit members, and deliver union training.
• Database Reporting & Accountability: maintain member information and labor-relations records.
• Collective Bargaining: participate in negotiations, develop proposals, and enforce agreements.

Skills

Public speaking

Leadership

Communication

Adaptability

Education

University degree or college diploma in Labour Studies

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

UFCW is looking for Member Representatives to join our growing team!

About UFCW 1518

At UFCW 1518, we believe that we are stronger together. Everyone deserves safe and respectful working conditions and a healthy community. By continuing to win fights for fairness, organize workers in diverse industries, and support causes that benefit communities, we work together to improve the quality of life for all British Columbians.

Position Summary

We are looking for a full-time temporary Member Representative to join our team on a 12-month contract. The successful candidate will be assigned to service UFCW 1518 members in Kelowna and other areas as assigned.

UFCW 1518’s Member Representative works on the front lines to engage members, stewards, and activities to defend and promote the rights of workers. Reporting to the Senior Director, Bargaining & Services, you will deliver fair representation, support, and education to members as they navigate the collective agreement and bargaining process.

Key Responsibilities

• Grievance Handling. You’ll have the opportunity to research, represent and present Stage I & II Grievances at arbitrations and Labour Board hearings.
• Member Representation. Foster relationships with workers, management, and the community with workplace visits. You’ll earn the chance to foster positive labor relations and advocate for members when it comes to health & safety, human rights, political action, and duty to accommodate.
• Member Engagement. Leverage your leadership capabilities to mentor and train stewards, recruit new members and deliver union training.
• Database Reporting & Accountability. Track and proactively maintain UFCW 1518’s database with member information and labor-relations processes.

Other Responsibilities

• Collective Bargaining. Act as a spokesperson in negotiations and strategic bargaining discussions. You will work with member bargaining committees to research and develop bargaining proposals, while interpreting, administering, and enforcing collective agreements
• Projects & Joint Committees. Draft contracts for upcoming projects and union representation. Use your expertise to ensure compliance and recruit members for participation on Joint Committees.
• Organizing Unions. Connect with unorganized workplaces and campaign for certification by canvassing and educating workers about union membership.

What You Bring to the Table

• 2 – 5 experiences as a Union Representative and/or steward
• University degree or college diploma in Labour Studies or any related field.
• Understanding of labour legislation and processes, such as BC Labour Relations Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Employment Standards Act.
• Technically versed in Microsoft Office Suite, performing Internet and Intranet searches, and uploading documents.
• You have a BC driver’s license and is able to drive a vehicle to travel throughout BC and Canada.
• You’re an adaptable communicator and public speaker to earn trust, confidence, and respect of members in both friendly and hostile groups.
• Ability to work effectively with people at all levels within the union, employer groups, and other organizations.
• You’re a natural leader with the ability to inspire, engage, direct and mentor both members and employers.
• Ability to leverage creative problem solving, risk assessment and critical thinking to work independently with little supervision.
• You’re an active listener that responds in a decisive, positive, and proactive way to member issues and concerns.
• Experience at the bargaining table and achieving settlements.

This position offers an hourly rate ranging from $32.61 to $43.25 per hour in accordance with the CBA, along with extended health & dental benefits, and a healthy work-life balance in a hybrid work environment.

UFCW 1518 is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. People with disabilities, BIPOC, immigrants, women, and LGBTQ2S+ people are encouraged to apply. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process by contacting [e-mail].