The mission of the LERC is to deliver high-quality education and training programs for the dynamic and diverse working population of Washington State, using the best practices of adult education.  LERC curriculum intends to build the skills, confidence, and knowledge working people need to be effective leaders in efforts to improve their lives and communities, and to promote a just economy through collective action.  LERC research intends to contribute to civic engagement about policies impacting working families and workers’ organizations.

The LERC also organizes large public events such as conferences, provides contract training to unions and other workers’ organizations, serves as a resource for faculty, students, and staff within the Seattle Colleges and other educational organizations, produces the Washington State Workers’ Rights manual, can offer classes through Continuing Education at South Seattle College, and has a book, film, and training materials library available for public use.

The Director of the LERC is responsible for the oversight and management of LERC’s financial and human resources, and reports directly to the Dean of the Georgetown Campus. The current staff configuration at the LERC includes two labor educators, one labor policy researcher and grant writer, and one program coordinator.

First review will be October 23rd, 2018.

Seattle Colleges are committed to recruiting dedicated faculty and staff who together create a welcoming academic climate that reflects the diverse backgrounds of our community, including ethnicity, national origin, religion, race, gender, gender identity, age, status as a veteran or disabled veteran, disability, political status, and sexual orientation.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted.  Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.

This is a non-represented, civil service exempt position.

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for the LERC that prioritizes quality labor education and research programs.
• Provide vision, leadership, and management to develop and support LERC programs that respond to the educational needs of labor unions, workers, students,  apprentices, and community members involved in civic engagement and economic empowerment.
• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of all programs of the Washington State LERC.
• Serve as one of the LERC’s educators by designing curriculum, planning and implementing workshops, and giving presentations.
• Manage LERC personnel by hiring, training and evaluating staff paid through LERC budgets. Currently this includes two labor educators, one labor policy researcher and grant writer and one program coordinator.
• Ensure the financial health of LERC through responsible administration of multiple budgets, grant development, and revenue enhancement.
• Work with LERC staff and South Seattle College staff and/or community partners to author grant proposals to foundations, government agencies, and other potential funders as appropriate.
• Serve as lead ambassador to labor unions, the Washington State Labor Council and other AFL-CIO bodies, other institutions of higher education, and national labor education organizations.
• Maintain active LERC Advisory Committee through recruiting members, and planning and scheduling quarterly Advisory Committee meetings
• Oversee or do research to provide data and analysis about labor policy issues; consult about policies impacting labor organizations, work environments, workforce development, and occupational safety and health.
• Work with the South Seattle College community to integrate the LERC into the curricula of the college and to a develop degree or certificate program in Labor Relations.
• Serve on committees and participate in projects of the South Seattle/Seattle Colleges communities

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 3-5 years’ experience developing and implementing labor education programs
• Design curricula that follows the best practices of adult education
• Understand how labor unions operate and the role they play in politics and the economy
• Understand how apprenticeship programs operate and their importance as a form of labor education
• Budget and operations management
• Staff supervision and team building
• Event planning
• Recognize the negative impacts of discrimination on working people; incorporate anti-bias policies and procedures into organizational and program development
• Develop effective partnerships through outreach and collaboration
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Master’s degree
• Experience with strategic campaigns
• Experience designing and administering college programs, and navigating college systems
• Fluency in a language in addition to English