WSLC seeks Temporary Unemployment Insurance Navigator

SEATTLE (Jan. 17, 2024) — The Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO — the largest union organization in the state, representing more than 600 local unions and 500,000 union workers and serving as the political, legislative and policy, communications and solidarity arm of the state’s labor movement — is hiring!

The WSLC is seeking applicants for the following position:

Workforce Development Department – Temporary Unemployment Insurance Navigator 

The WSLC is seeking a dedicated individual for the role of Temporary Unemployment Insurance (UI) Navigator.  The UI Navigator serves on a team of four Directors and one Administrative Assistant in the Washington State Labor Council’s Olympia office. This team serves as liaisons between labor organizations and the public workforce system, which includes multiple state agencies, education institutions, and community partners. A large portion of this work is independent or working in partnership with another member of the department engaging with the public throughout the State of Washington. The Unemployment Insurance Navigator will report to the President of the WSLC and work as a collaborative member of the Workforce Development team. This position is part of a pilot project in collaboration with the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) and the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) to assist individuals in navigating the complexities of the unemployment insurance (UI) system.

This statewide position is an 18-month temporary full-time role, salaried, and is subject to irregular work hours – including late nights, weekends, and holidays – based on organizational needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• UI Assistance
  • Provide direct assistance to individuals seeking unemployment insurance benefits.
• Training and Support
  • Conduct training sessions for community-based organizations (CBOs), including staff and volunteers, to enhance their knowledge and skills in UI eligibility, application processes, appeals, and common issues.
• Data Collection and Reporting
  • Ensure accurate and consistent data collection according to established protocols. Compile and submit reports as required by the project guidelines.
• Engagement and Outreach
  • Identify target populations and engage with them through various channels such as in-person sessions, phone support, and online platforms. Develop outreach materials and establish partnerships with local agencies and community organizations.
• Collaboration
  • Work closely with the Washington State Labor Council team, ESD, and other stakeholders to ensure effective coordination and implementation of the UI Navigator project.

DESIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Union and/or community organizing experience, knowledge of and experience with the labor movement
• Strong understanding of the unemployment insurance system, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and appeals process
• Previous experience in providing direct assistance or support to individuals navigating government assistance programs, preferably in the field of unemployment insurance or related areas
• Excellent communication and training skills to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with data collection methods and reporting standards.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and establish partnerships with external organizations.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work within a temporary project-based setting.
• Ability to work independently
• Positive attitude and strong team player, demonstrated ability to work in both a lead and support role
• Ability to travel as needed and work flexible hours

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Salary Range: competitive salary range $80,000 – $85,000 per year
• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options, 401k retirement, vacation, holiday, sick leave, family leave, auto, and employer-paid auto insurance.

START DATE

• At completion of recruitment, no later than February 1, 2024

TO APPLY

Please submit the following materials to Willa Kamakahi, WSLC Executive Assistant to the President at wkamakahi@wslc.org:

1) Formal letter of interest with qualifications

2) Your resumé with three references.

Black and Indigenous people, people of color, immigrants, women, LGBTQ+ folks, people with multilingual skills, disabled folks and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. WSLC is an equal opportunity employer.

Interviews will begin Jan. 24. Position is open until filled. Expected start date is on or before Feb. 1, 2024.