Closing date: Friday 20 November 2026
About the Role:
▪ The Workers First Organiser is a full-time, permanent organising role responsible for retail, finance, commerce, transport, manufacturing, the wood sector and logistics in the Southern region.
▪ The primary objective of this position is strategic, targeted membership growth, that aligns with needs of the Southern team. Recruit and develop delegates whilst raising awareness of the benefits of Union membership engaged in our sectors, and to perform any other duties as reasonably required by the Regional Organising Director.
Qualifications and Experience
▪Consistently demonstrating and promoting the Union’s vision and values in daily actions and decisions, both within and outside the workplace.
▪Be prepared to travel as necessary, work weekends and nights on occasion, including overnight stays.
▪Have good one-to-one and group communication skills and have a strong
commitment to giving workers the opportunity to be part of a union.
▪Promote and support effective workplace leaders (union delegates).
▪Represent members, provide support, and ensure delegates are involved.
▪Takes accountability for own actions and self-development.
▪Basic understanding of industrial law (i.e. Employment Relations Act 2000, Holidays Act, Health & Safety at Work, Wages Protection Act)
▪Confidence and capability, making sound decisions on complex organising issues under time pressures.
▪Great organisational skills with a high degree of initiative and drive, excellent interpersonal and analytical skills.
▪Works well in a team environment.
▪A can-do attitude and an alignment with Union’s values, including a commitment to collaboration and supporting our diverse communities.
▪Have good IT skills and experience using Microsoft 365
▪Good communication skills, written and oral.
▪Knowledge of relevant health and safety requirements.
▪Flexible and adaptable to meet the differing demands as they arise.
▪Performing additional duties that are not explicitly outlined in the position description but are within the capability, skills, and experience generally expected of someone in this role.
▪Knowledge of and willingness to demonstrate the Union’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
▪Current New Zealand driver’s license.
Salary and Benefits
▪Between $87,465 and $101,670 per annum, depending on work experience.
▪Car, laptop and phone.
▪25 days of annual leave
▪5.5% KiwiSaver contribution
Applicants
▪ If you are interested in this position, please register your interest by emailing Ross Heslop ross.heslop@workersfirst.nz
▪ Expressions of interest close 5 pm Friday, the 20th November 2026.
▪ The commencement date will be negotiated with the successful candidate.
▪ Workers First Union is an equal opportunity employer.
Contact person: Ross Heslop