During Convention 2017, OPSEU’S Executive Board approved the rollout of the Membership Development Trainee (MDT) program. The initiative was a resounding success, with more than 150 applications received from across the union.
Nine highly qualified and motivated finalists were selected, seven of whom worked as staff representatives, while two were assigned to Organizing.
In light of its experience with the program in 2017, the Member Education Unit is very excited to announce the launch of the 2018 program, which will be delivered this autumn.
If you are a member of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), you are eligible to apply for a training opportunity that will develop your knowledge of the trade union movement and hone your skills in union-related occupations at OPSEU.
Applications for a limited number of member training positions will be accepted from July 6 to July 20 at 4 p.m. (Toronto time).
Frequently asked questions
What is the MDT program?
The MDT program was created to provide opportunities for OPSEU members from all sectors to experience what working with OPSEU would be like. It is also meant to develop a pool of qualified and experienced applicants for a variety of staff vacancies that arise from time to time at OPSEU.
Why is OPSEU offering these training opportunities?
As is with most organizations, OPSEU expects a number staff retirements over the next few years. The program will help OPSEU train potential staff members. In addition, the program will enhance the skills of our activists.
Who is eligible to participate?
Any OPSEU member in good standing and who wishes to develop their skills may apply to the MDT program.
What can I expect the training to be about?
All successful applicants will receive the on-the-job training required to work in positions at OPSEU, including staff representative (seven MDT positions) and grievance officer (two MDT positions).
How is the leave from my regular work arranged?
If you are selected, OPSEU will contact your employer and seek a leave of absence for you.
When does the program start?
All MDTs are expected to start September 17, 2018. The program will continue for 12 weeks until December 7, 2018.
Can I take holidays?
During the program, it will not be possible to approve vacations, other than the use of compensating days, for time off from the training program. Therefore, applicants must ensure they are available for the entire planned time for the training.
How do I apply for the MDT program?
You can apply by sending a short cover letter and resume by email to competitions@opseu.org and completing the survey from July 6 to July 20 quoting “MDT application” in the subject line. You must complete the survey, along with sending in your cover letter and resume. Applications will only be accepted until 4 p.m. (Toronto time) on July 20, 2018. In your application, be sure to indicate which position you are applying for (staff representative or grievance officer). The full job descriptions for these positions can be found below.
I’ve never done a resume before. What are you looking for?
There are many kinds of resumes. What we are looking for is information about your skills and experiences that will indicate how you could contribute within OPSEU as a workplace. Below is a sample of a simple resume format that would be acceptable.
OPSEU supports employment equity. Racialized workers, women, Indigenous workers, LGBTQTS workers, young workers, francophone workers, and workers with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For the purpose of statistical data collection, applicants are strongly encouraged to voluntarily self-identify.
If you require an accommodation to participate in this posting, please advise us by email.
Approved for distribution by:
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President of OPSEU
22 Union Road, Mytown ON P2B 3C4, 456-302-2345, jdoe@hotmail.com
Jordan Doe – Sample Resume
Objective:
To obtain a position as an MDT Staff Rep within OPSEU
Union and Work Experience
2008 to current
OPSEU Local 123, Smith College, Mytown ON
Union Steward
- Prepared, investigated and represented members on over 20 grievances
- Member of the Local Executive Committee, presented members’ concerns as required, never missed a meeting in nine years
- Communicate general union information to members, always ensuring that information is delivered in a timely manner
- Written numerous articles for the Local 123 newsletter
- Currently working on a local social media campaign to be launched in the fall of 2018
- Attended various regional educational courses, such as Stewardship, Basic and Advanced Grievance Handling, and Duty to Accommodate
2008 to current
Smith College, Mytown ON
Administrative Assistant
- Prepare various correspondence for two managers
- Prioritize schedules and manage time efficiently
- Answer all departmental phone calls and respond to email inquiries
- Create and maintain the electronic filing system for the office
2000 to 2008
ABC Publishing Co., Vancouver BC
Clerk
- Filed daily orders using manual filing system
- Delivered mail to all departments
- Filled in on reception desk as required
Education
1997 to 1999
Mountain Community College, Kelowna BC
- Diploma in office administration
Job descriptions
MDT Grievance Officer, Arbitrations Unit
Location: Head Office, 100 Lesmill Road, North York ON M3B 3P8
Reporting to: Supervisor, Arbitrations Unit
Working conditions: As provided in the OPSSU Collective Agreement
Assist with the following principal duties:
- prepares evidence, including examinations in chief and cross-examinations of witnesses; researches and applies case law; presents arguments
- responds to questions regarding collective agreement interpretation
- meets with LECs, grievors and management representatives with a view to settling grievances to a grievor’s satisfaction
- guides and instructs outside counsel
- may provide advice and representation to members and staff regarding regulated professions
- co-ordinates and administers grievances in the area of responsibility
- negotiates and mediates grievance settlements
- prepares written submissions, as required
- provides advice to OPSEU staff and members concerning grievances, including legal principles and case law, strategy, process and settlements, as well as the merits of grievances
- performs other related duties, as assigned
Qualifications:
- undergraduate degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience) and five years of related work experience with demonstrated advocacy skills
- intermediate PC skills and knowledge of relevant software packages
- tact and diplomacy skills
- knowledge of labour and related legislation and legislative changes, case law, collective agreement language, and grievance/arbitration procedures and practices
- knowledge of in-house case law database
- knowledge of OPSEU organization, structure and policies; knowledge of own unit, as well as familiarity of operations of other units
- understanding and commitment to labour/social democratic philosophy and eiversity
MDT Staff Representative
Location: to be determined
Reporting to: Supervisor, Local Services
Working Conditions: As provided in the OPSSU Collective Agreement
Assist with the following principal duties:
- negotiates contracts and other agreements
- develops and writes contract/dispute settlement language
- develops new, innovative bargaining/dispute resolution strategies and positions
- researches and prepares arguments and proposals for collective bargaining
- provides servicing support to organizing/reorganizing campaign
- provides leadership and advice to members in strike preparation and strikes
- provides leadership in development of strong active locals and positive links within the labour community
- prepares for and facilitates educational programs
- attends and assists with general membership meetings and elections and votes, as required
- performs other related duties, as assigned
Qualifications:
- undergraduate degree (or equivalent combination education and experience) and four years of related work experience
- intermediate PC skills and knowledge of relevant software packages and internal databases
- facilitation, advocacy and numeracy skills
- tact and diplomacy skills
- knowledge of bargaining trends, settlements, labour and other related legislation, and arbitration awards
- knowledge of OPSEU organization, structure and policies and of own unit, as well as familiarity of operations of other units
- understanding and commitment to labour/social democratic philosophy and diversity