SEIU Local 620

Field Representative Trainee

Based in Santa Barbara, CA

 

Job Title: Field Representative Trainee
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: Executive Director or Designated Authority
Annual Salary Range: $71,918 – $87,797

SEIU Local 620 represents 3,000+ public sector employees across 32 public agencies in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. Members include administrative staff, IT, maintenance, harbor patrol, parks & recreation, engineers, and more. We are looking for energetic, hard-working staff who are committed to real change, who believe in the value of work and the value of public services and who want to be part of the team that wins for workers, their families and their communities.

Responsibilities: The Field Representative Trainee is an entry-level position designed to prepare individuals for promotion into a full Field Representative role. Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Trainee will assist senior union staff in member representation, organizing, and educational activities. This position offers recent graduates or emerging labor leaders an opportunity to grow within a labor organization.

Essential Functions:
Training & Development:

• Participate in a structured training program covering union representation, labor law, and collective bargaining.
• Shadow experienced Field Representatives in meetings, grievances, and hearings.
• Attend internal and external trainings to develop advocacy and communication skills.

Representation Support:

• Assist in case preparation, documentation, and scheduling for grievance and disciplinary meetings.
• Observe grievance and investigatory processes to learn due process and just cause standards.
• Support members by gathering information, organizing documents, and preparing timelines.

Member Engagement & Education:

• Conduct worksite visits and membership drives to build visibility and relationships.
• Support meetings and events with logistics coordination and material distribution.
• Help create informational flyers, newsletters, and digital content.

Organizing & Outreach:

• Identify emerging leaders and stewards at worksites.
• Maintain basic databases and contact lists.
• Contribute to social media and communications efforts.

Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or related field—or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, and travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Some exposure to labor relations, organizing, or public service.
• Bilingual Spanish/English or other language skills are a plus.
• Interest in labor unions, social justice, and public service.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with diverse groups.
• Willingness to learn, take direction, and grow professionally.

Position Growth: This role is intended for promotion to Field Representative upon successful completion of training (typically 12–18 months) and demonstrated competency.

License Requirements: California Driver’s license and reliable vehicle required at time of appointment.

To Apply: 
You must include a detailed résumé, cover letter indicating the position you are applying for, and the names and contact information of (3) references. 

Submit résumés via:

Mail: SEIU Local 620; Attn: Ronna Hooper, 114 Vine Street, Santa Maria, CA 93454
Fax: 805-614-7620
Email: ronna@seiulocal620.org

Closing Date: July 18, 2025

SEIU Local 620 encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, or disability.