Full-Time Strategic Researcher

Illinois Federation of Teachers

500 Oakmont Lane

Westmont, Illinois 60559

Full-Time Strategic Researcher

Assigned to the Chicago, IL office

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in researching education and public policies that impact IFT members and affect collective bargaining and other worker rights.
• Knowledge of and ability to analyze state and local pension systems and related law.
• Experience in conducting private sector corporate and other strategic research.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting and winning strategic campaigns.
• Experience in developing and delivering training and professional development to groups.
• Advance skills in database work and online search strategies.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• Extensive knowledge of areas related to all aspects of collective bargaining including organizing and contract campaigns.
• Extensive knowledge of processing and advocating contract grievances and arbitrations, including labor law.
• Experience in collecting and analyzing data related to compensation and benefits of workers.
• Experience in analyzing public sector budgets (pre-K-12, higher education, state agencies).
• Extensive knowledge of:
• Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Access, Power Point
• Westlaw & other legal research resources
• Public document searches and other online research tools
• Ability to creatively and independently identify research needs and to plan, initiate and successfully complete extensive research projects.
• Ability to work in multi-party coalitions and with groups outside the IFT, as directed.
• Strong knowledge of rules and regulations under state and federal labor relations boards and of federal and state labor laws and regulations.
• Ability to work independently and to work long hours, including some holidays and weekends as needed, and to produce work on short deadlines.
• Willing to travel long distances as needed.

MAIN FUNCTIONS

OVERSEE IFT RESEARCH PROGRAM

• Design and initiate specific research programs in areas including: contracts, salary, arbitration, organizing, legal, legislative and public policy, political, corporate, community engagement and other strategic areas as needed.
• Develop and maintain statewide research capabilities and databases.
• Present before groups interested in IFT information.
• Provide approved parties with IFT research.
• Coordinate research requests and assistance with AFT Strategic Resource Department.

PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO LOCALS, LEADERSHIP, AND STAFF

• Provide assistance through field service directors.
• Update and train locals upon request in coordination with field service directors or other staff.
• Update and train staff on a continuing basis.

OTHER SPECIFIC ASSIGNMENTS

• Work under the daily supervision and direction of the Chief of Staff or the General Counsel.
• Attend IFT meetings and workshops.
• Assist in IFT convention and conference programs.
• Assist in legislative and political activities, communications and media needs, and organizing and field campaigns.
• Produce timely reports on IFT research activities, as directed.
• Carry out assignments as directed by the President, Chief of Staff, or the General Counsel.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Budgeted salary: range from 87,000.00 to 103,333.00 annually. The IFT anticipates hiring within this range; however, exceptional candidates with significant experience may be considered above this range consistent with organizational needs and internal equity.

Benefits: This position includes a 100% employer-paid, health, dental and vision plan, a remote allowance, and a generous 401k contribution. The IFT also provides a competitive package of paid time off and paid holidays.