Help us Grow, Change Lives

Organizer

United Association (UA) organizers are at the forefront of the labor movement, playing a vital role in growing union membership, strengthening the skilled trades, and advocating for fair treatment and better opportunities for all workers. United Association (UA) organizers are key leaders in the labor movement. They play a critical role in expanding union membership, strengthening the skilled trades, and advocating for fair treatment and improved opportunities for all workers.

As an organizer, you are not just building the union—you’re changing lives, empowering non-union workers and advancing industry standards for wages, benefits, and workplace safety.

If you’re passionate about leadership, advocacy, and social justice, a career as a UA organizer offers the chance to make a real, lasting impact in your community and across North America.

What Is a Union Organizer?

A union organizer is a dedicated professional who works to build union membership, foster solidarity, and support workers seeking better job conditions. Organizers are the bridge between the UA and non-union workers, educating them about the benefits of union representation and guiding them through the process of joining the union. They also support current UA members, help resolve workplace issues, and advocate for the interests of all skilled tradespeople.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

UA organizers take on a wide range of critical duties, including:
Outreach and Recruitment Connecting with non-union workers, explaining the advantages of union membership and assisting them in organizing their workplaces.

Education and Advocacy
Providing information about wages, benefits, safety, and training opportunities that unions offer, and dispelling myths or misinformation about unionization.

Campaign Planning and Execution
Developing and implementing organizing strategies, including meetings, site visits, digital outreach, and community events.

Support and Guidance Assisting workers through the unionization process, from initial interest to successful organizing drives and contract negotiations.
Member Engagement Encouraging current UA members to participate in organizing efforts and building a strong, active union community.
Problem Solving Helping resolve workplace issues, addressing unfair labor practices and advocating for workers’ rights on jobsites and in the broader industry.

Building Relationships
Establishing trust with workers, employers, community leaders, and other unions to support organizing goals and create lasting partnerships.

UA Union Organizing

The Impact of UA Organizers

Organizers are the driving force behind union growth and the elevation of industry standards. Their work helps:

  • Expand Union Membership: Bringing more workers into the union increases bargaining power, strengthens the voice of labor, and improves outcomes for all members.
  • Raise Standards for All Workers: Organizing efforts lead to better pay, safer workplaces, and stronger benefits for union members and the entire industry.
  • Empower Non-Union Workers: By providing a path to union representation, organizers help non-union workers secure dignity, respect, and enable them to have a real say in their working conditions.
  • Promote Social Justice: Organizers champion fairness, diversity, and inclusion, helping to build a more equitable workforce and society.

Why Become a UA Organizer?

A career as a UA organizer is both professionally and personally rewarding. Organizers enjoy:
Making a Tangible Difference See the direct results of your work as lives are improved and communities are strengthened.
Leadership Opportunities Develop communication, negotiation and strategic planning skills, with pathways to leadership within the UA.

Continuous Learning
Stay engaged with the latest labor laws, organizing strategies, and industry trends.

Community and Camaraderie Work alongside passionate union members and leaders who share your commitment to justice and progress.

How to Become a UA Organizer

Most UA organizers begin as experienced journeymen or active union members with a passion for advocacy and leadership. If you’re interested in becoming an organizer:

Get Involved
Participate in union meetings, organizing campaigns, and outreach events.

Develop Skills
Take advantage of UA training programs in organizing, leadership, and communications.

Express Your Interest Let your Local Union or UA leadership know you’re interested in organizing opportunities.
Build Relationships Network with other organizers and labor leaders to learn best practices and expand your impact.