Research Specialist

CFA is a union of 29,000 faculty members, librarians, counselors and coaches of the California State University (CSU) system.  On the 23 CSU campuses, CFA members work hard to teach our students the critical thinking skills, the technical know-how, and the cultural insights they need to be thoughtful, productive, and artistic participants in our society.

CFA is one of the largest higher education labor unions in the U.S. and is a national leader in its advocacy for anti-racism and social justice. As the exclusive collective bargaining representative, CFA negotiates a contract with the CSU administration that promotes academic freedom, upholds faculty rights, delivers financial protection for the faculty, and promotes faculty participation in the governance of the CSU. 

CFA is seeking candidates with a strong knowledge and background in racial and social justice work.  Candidates who have relevant experience (formally or informally) and can translate that into the range of job responsibilities listed below are strongly encouraged to apply.

CFA is proud to be a member-run union and believes in employing hard-working and creative staff whose talents complement those of our elected leadership.  For more information about the CFA, visit our website at www.calfac.org

Research Specialist

Location: Sacramento

CFA seeks a Research Specialist. CFA’s Research Specialist will work in a department that is responsible for conducting comprehensive applied research and studies in support of CFA’s collective bargaining, representation, legislative and communications programs. The department is also responsible for collecting and analyzing financial information related to the California State University and higher education as well as other factors that influence the decision making in the system.

Applicant must be a self-motivated, deadline-oriented individual with a willingness and desire to learn new skills, and work with people in academia, labor unions, and with members to bring them into the work.

The Research Specialist requires contemporary research experience within the public sector, preferably in higher education/labor issues, along with the following skills and qualities:

Essential Job Duties:

• Conduct research that is both qualitative and quantitative in nature, using a wide variety of research resources and methods.
• Provide research support for bargaining, representation, legislation, and communications programs.
• Creatively analyze financial and other quantitative data to identify facts and patterns relevant to CFA goals and mission.
• Support union program to move campaigns forward through organizing, field actions, and politics, as needed.
• Anti-Racism/Social Justice Transformation, including intentionally working to infuse anti-racist and social justice values into the everyday work of CFA;
• Other duties as assigned

  The ideal candidate will have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills;
• Experience in working with common analytical tools, including Microsoft Excel and statistical packages;
• Ability to manage time, handle pressure, meet deadlines, and multi-task;
• Ability to interact effectively and professionally with faculty and staff at all levels of the organization, as well as other labor, education, community, and consumer groups.
• A strong commitment to advancing racial and social justice transformation in the union movement, the university and beyond;
• Ability to work collaboratively and strategically with CFA officers, members, interns and staff;

  Requirements:

• Demonstrated skill, experience and acumen in developing others;
• Demonstrated ability to infuse anti-racism and social justice work into the everyday work of CFA;
• Demonstrated skill and experience creating and implementing organizing and/or strategic plans;
• Excellent written, oral communication and public speaking skills;
• Valid driver’s license, an automobile for business use, and proof of minimum insurance coverage;
• Ability to lift 25 lbs; subject to reasonable accommodation.

Salary/Benefits/Location: CFA offers a fully paid benefit package including medical, dental, vision, SEIU defined benefit pension plan, 401(k) with employer match and generous paid leave. This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement; Salary range is $71,089.20 - $144,874.55 commensurate with experience. 

To apply send cover letter, resume and references to searchcommittee@calfac.org.

CFA is an Affirmative Action Employer.

Women, People of Color/Native People, members of the LGBTQIA community, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

CFA complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact searchcommittee@calfac.org