North & Capital Unit UniServ Director (MAE Member Representative and Unified Service Provider)

The Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) is the most powerful professional association for educators in our state and an affiliate of the National Education Association. We are dedicated to improving the teaching profession and strengthening Mississippi’s public schools. We are guided by the vision of providing a great public school for every child. We exist to support, protect, and strengthen those who nurture Mississippi’s children.

As a UniServ Director, you will be an integral part of our effort to support and organize educators and stakeholders in the North and Capital Region of the State as we work to implement the MAE strategic priorities through membership recruitment, promotion, retention, engagement, new leader identification and support to local associations and members in areas including, but not limited to, organizing, member rights advocacy, local development and leadership training, professional efficacy, and legislative advocacy.

In executing the role and responsibilities of the position, you will work closely and in a collaborative manner with MAE staff and local leaders.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:   

1. Support, promote and facilitate implementation of and adherence to the policies and programs adopted by MAE/NEA. 
2. Developing strong local units by assisting members with:  
   a. Organizing and developing high functioning local association structures including, business management and operations procedures, according to specific policies and procedures 
   b. Training officers, leaders, and members;  
   c. Implementing programs that creatively and successfully support membership   
         recruitment, retention, and engagement. 
3. Maintain regular contact (meetings) with leaders in each assigned unit. 
4. Develop and implement effective communication systems designed to keep members and the community informed on issues relating to public school improvement, for education professionals, school students and school communities; as well as perceived threats thereto. 
5. Develop and utilize collaborative relationships with administrative representatives at all levels of the district, to facilitate problem solving and resolve disputes regarding member employment/working conditions, professional development, and other employment issues. 
6. Become familiar with and keep abreast of school district policies in each of the assigned locals. 
7. Monitor relevant state and federal legislation relating to issues affecting members’ rights, working conditions and compensation.  
8. Organize and/or provide specialized training on needed topics for leaders and members such as political advocacy and professional rights. 
9. Ensure personal high levels of skill and knowledge through approved attendance/ participation in professional self-development and improvement classes or activities.   
10. Maintain proficiency in technology for managing accurate, timely data flow and accomplishing other tasks.   
11. Adhere to deadlines as required in administrative and program duties. (vouchers, timesheet, reports, etc.) 
12. Perform other organizational duties as assigned by the MAE Executive Director and/or Director of Affiliate Services. (e.g., Legislative liaison) 

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of related training and experience. 
• Three or more years' experience in an advocacy /labor relations experience/personnel 
• Experience in situations requiring skills in organizing, political action/lobbying, public relations, community action, labor relations, personnel. 
• Experience working with teachers, education support personnel or public sector labor related issues.  
• Demonstrated ability to identify and analyze various options in determining a course of action 
• Experience in developing, motivating, training and maintaining effective volunteer group activities 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently within the association, with affiliates and other organizations/agencies important to accomplishment of association goals.  
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment, initiative and resourcefulness  
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with individuals and groups having differences in several aspects.  
• Demonstrated ability in working in situations requiring confidentiality 
• Ability to think strategically, analyze risks, benefits and cost of proposals in various situations. 
• Experience with & moderate knowledge of technology tools such as Microsoft Office Suites, Google Workspace, Publisher, websites, social media. 

A strong candidate will possess the following characteristics and personal strengths: 

• Self-starter; flexible; dependable; responsible work ethic; sense of humor;  
• “Can do” attitude; use good judgment in decision-making; 
• Ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and responsively with teams 
• Understanding of problems facing public education employees and their organizations; 
• Ability to anticipate organizing opportunities and future organizational trends;  
• Efficiency in verbal and written communications; 
• Proven ability to advocate for equal rights and fair treatment of employees  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

The position is open and to be filled as soon as possible.  Applicants must hold a valid US driver’s license that complies with the State of Mississippi, be able and willing to drive long distances and own a properly insured personal vehicle.

Please download the application below. Indicate thereon the position for which you are applying. Submit the application with a cover letter and your resume to: [email protected] or via postal mail to: 

Ms. Allice Lattimore, MAE Executive Assistant, 775 N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39202.

The base salary range for the position is $49,696-$56,268 and is linked to the 2023-2026 staff contract.  A salary offer will incorporate the chosen candidate’s work history and relevant professional experience. A range of fringe benefits will include retirement, health, dental and life insurance, vision care, paid sick leave and vacation, optional 401K plan. 

MAE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER 
***The Mississippi Association of Educators is and equality opportunity employer for all employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment.***