Organizer-in-Training Program

ORGANIZER-IN-TRAINING PROGRAM

Become a UFCW 1518 Organizer-in-Training (OIT) and lead the charge for worker rights!

ABOUT the program

UFCW 1518 Organizer-in-Training (OIT) is a member program that offers you the opportunity to access training in organizing, mobilizing, and campaign planning, with hands-on experience through skills-building sessions, one-on-one mentorship, and engagement with non-unionized workers. If you are interested in not only building worker power in non-union workplaces, but also organizing for economic and social justice causes outside of the workplace, this program is for you!

This program combines practical skills in organizing, on-the-ground mobilizing, and campaign planning to prepare participants to become labour activists in their communities. As an OIT, you will gain hands-on labour organizing experience by engaging with non-unionized workers while gaining one-on-one mentorship from experienced organizers.

By the end of the program, participants will have a thorough understanding of the organizing process and how they can help build worker power in their communities!

Key Qualifications

Interest in union organizing and getting to know fellow members.
Demonstrated commitment to social justice.
Commitment to building a more politically and socially active union.
Previous experience with organizing and mobilizing either in their workplace, in their neighborhood, or through their community involvement.
Strong engagement with anti-oppression, cultural humility and decolonization.
Great interpersonal skills, with a willingness to hold conversations with non-union workers, UFCW 1518 members and activists.

In addition to the above key qualifications, applicants should also be:

Available full-time for the full duration of the program including the training period.

Willing and able to work evening and weekend hours, as necessary.

Have a valid Class-5 driver license.

What our Organizers-In-Training Say

The Organizer-in-Training program for me was a great experience with an even greater team. I enjoyed being involved with the local and its growth. The skills and knowledge gained have aided me in growing both personally and professionally. I highly recommend the program for anyone looking to get involved and learn something new.

Doing the Organizer-in-Training program has allowed me to grow the skills I developed from unionizing my own work place to better help those in similar situations. I have learned how deeply important organizing is not only in the work place, but in the communities around us, and I look forward to continuing to use these skills as my life progresses.

frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to become an OIT?

All UFCW 1518 members in good standing are eligible to become an OIT. Ideal candidates will be passionate about social justice, the labour movement, and fighting for worker rights!

Is this position paid?

OITs will be compensated at their normal hourly rate for the duration of the program. UFCW 1518 will reimburse your employer for wages and you will maintain the same benefits you are currently provided by your employer.

Do I need any prior experience in labour work/organizing to become an OIT?

Applicants aren’t required to have and prior experience in organizing. OITs will take part in trainings and workshops held by experienced organizers – we’ll help you grow into a union activist!

Will becoming an OIT affect my current role?

When your OIT placement is complete, you will return to your workplace with no changes to your prior job classification, wages, hours, benefits and position. You’ll gain all the benefits of the program, without any impact on your permanent role.

How long do OIT placements last?

OIT placements can range anywhere from 30 days to several months depending on the length of the special project. Selected applicants will be invited to interview for the role and learn more about the project and its duration.

I have additional questions about the program, who can I contact?

You can contact the Education department at education@ufcw1518.com to learn more about the program.

Apply to be an Organizer-in-Training

Applications for the Organizer-in-Training program are currently closed. The next session of the Organizer-in-Training program will begin in July 2025, and we will open applications to members in June! Please check back then for more news!