General Description
The California Teachers Association is one of California’s largest and most dynamic labor unions. The Instruction and Professional Development Department (IPD) is a field-based department that provides training, policy, research and organizing support to CTA leaders, members and union staff. In-depth knowledge of teaching and learning in education and commitment to the labor movement are paramount. Knowledge of multi-lingual learners is beneficial. Responsibilities for the staff person in this position are to support members and union staff in curricular and instructional areas, provide support for organizing efforts to union staff and CTA chapters, and coordinate and provide professional development through CTA Conferences and regional and local trainings. This position requires working knowledge of federal and state education policies, laws, regulations, agencies, and programs.
As part of our IPD team, you’ll contribute to improving teaching and learning conditions in education through member training and professional development, organizing, collective action, bargaining, strategic research, policy advocacy and local and state issue campaigns.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide organizing, membership engagement, and bargaining assistance to union staff and local union chapters on issues related to instruction, curriculum, professional development and other education issues.
- Develop, promote, and deliver IPD Department programs for leaders, members, and staff through various approaches including, but not limited to, web-based trainings, in-person workshops, technical assistance, organizing campaigns, strategic research, and individual consultation.
- Develop position papers, policy, legislation, and other resource materials related to curricular and instructional issues, staff development, and key educational issues.
- Analyze, conduct, and supervise research on education topics for use in union issue organizing campaigns.
- Prepare and conduct briefings on education issues and policies.
- Represent CTA regarding educational research and policies to various agencies and groups as assigned.
- Support and develop teacher leadership programs.
- Act as consultant on IPD issues to CTA State Council committees, CTA Board task forces and workgroups, and other CTA committees as assigned.
- Actively contribute to team goals, foster positive team environment, maintain collaborative relationships with diverse staff and membership, and work effectively across roles and departments.
- Ensure projects are aligned with union goals and provide excellent project management with attention to detail.
- Performs other appropriate duties as assigned.
Qualifications - Minimum Required
- Bachelor's or higher degree in education related field preferred but not required.
- Comprehensive understanding of the critical issues facing unions, public education, and the education profession, especially in California.
- Demonstrated ability to provide in-person and web-based trainings and presentations and to write curricula using a variety of adult teaching techniques appropriate for action-oriented education.
- Ability to facilitate processes with large and small groups as they discuss, plan, and implement ideas to improve teaching and learning.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills with a demonstrated ability to write and speak articulately to members, staff and public groups on behalf of CTA.
- Experience in education policy, and program development related to both state and federal levels.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct and direct education research, analyze information and present the results in a coherent and organized manner. Ability to frame complex issues in concise, action-oriented ways to support union issue campaigns.
- Excellent program development and project management skills.
- Ability to take initiative, work collaboratively with a team, handle multiple assignments in a fast-paced union environment with tight timelines, and deliver results.
- Adaptable and flexible. Able to adjust seamlessly and effectively to changing factors and conditions that impact IPD projects and other union programs.
- Demonstrated support for racial, social, and economic justice; workers’ rights; and a well-funded public education.
- Proficiency in the use of computer technology, Microsoft Suite and the ability to learn and use the Association’s software programs.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid California driver’s license.
- Ability to work and travel regularly on some evenings and weekends.
*This position is in a bargaining unit represented by CSO. Salaries are established by a collective bargaining agreement. Step placement is also determined by the CTA/CSO Agreement.
