Closing date: Friday 19 September 2025
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 Northland region.
The primary objective of this position is to build union membership, delegate numbers and raise awareness of the benefits of Union membership and collective action of workers 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 able to work as a sole charge union organiser in the region.
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.
Act as an advocate in negotiating collective employment agreements.
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.
A can-do attitude and an alignment with Union’s values, including a commitment to collaboration and supporting our diverse communities.
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 Jo Wilson (jo.wilson@firstunion.org.nz).
Applications close on 5pm Friday, the 19th of September 2025.
The successful applicant will commence the role as soon as possible.
Workers First Union is an equal opportunity employer.
Contact person: Jo Wilson