• Classification: Officer Level 6 or 7, depending on skills and experience

ABOUT US

The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) is a progressive trade union dedicated to advancing the rights and wellbeing of manufacturing workers and our communities. We represent workers in the metals trades, printing, paper industry, vehicle industry, food and confectionery industry, as well as technical trades and professions.

We are driven by our values. We are democratic, inclusive, fair and respectful; we do what we say; and we work strategically, standing together as one to deliver outcomes for members.

With a rich history and commitment to social justice, we pride ourselves on bold member-led campaigns that effect real change and build workers’ power.

The AMWU is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people, women, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and LGBTIQ+ people.

ROLE STATEMENT  

This role is part of the National Research Centre (NRC), the union’s think tank and hub for strategic litigation. The NRC drives bold reforms that improve the lives of working Australians. With a proud legacy of driving landmark policy reforms—including superannuation, paid domestic violence leave, and, in our earlier form, playing a pivotal role in the historic Harvester decision.

The NRC works closely with elected officials and members, providing research and support to secure better wages and working conditions for members. As a member of the NRC, you will provide research to assist members in their organising and bargaining efforts, briefings for senior leaders regarding topic such as the future of Australia’s manufacturing industry, conduct in-depth research on matters of strategic importance and contribute to government submissions.

This is a time of tremendous challenge, change and opportunity for AMWU members. Across a broad range of industries, members are fighting for the issues that matter to them today, and campaigning for a future in which they and their communities can thrive.

When it comes to the future of workers’ rights and manufacturing in our country, we want the voices of AMWU members and officials to be heard loud and clear, setting a progressive agenda and backing it in with strength on the ground across our industries. Our research capacity is critical to this ambition. 

This is where you come in.

Reporting to the National Coordinator of Legal and Research, you will provide expert research quantitative and qualitative research, accessible briefings and compelling proposals that support the aspirations of our members for a better life at work, in their families and for their communities.

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports directly to the National Coordinator of Legal and Research.  Other key relationships include National and State Secretaries, National and State Officials.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide timely and accurate quantitative and qualitative analysis of key labour market trends in clear and accessible language.
• Work on trade and other priority areas to advance and win AMWU policy.
• Prepare reports, submissions, and briefs to assist the AMWU with advocacy with government, other institutions and in public debate more broadly.
• Prepare standardised reports that provide company-level information to assist organisers in enterprise-bargaining negotiations. Conduct in-depth research to support industrial officers running litigation. Prepare reports in various policy areas for the purposes of submissions to parliamentary and government inquiries, as well as for general public policy advocacy purposes.
• Maintain external relationships with strategic partners, including other trade unions, NGOs and industry.

In addition to these activities, from time to time you may be asked to undertake tasks that are outside your usual span of duties but that are within your capabilities. Working collaboratively and supporting one another is an integral part of the AMWU’s positive workplace culture.

Decisions, actions and behaviours are governed by our Code of Conduct and our Union Culture Charter and the delivery of our services to our members is aligned to the commitments outlined in our Strategic Plan and Operational Plan. All employees have an accountability to ensure work and conduct is aligned with these.

FRAUD AND CORRUPTION PREVENTION

The Union constantly strives to improve our practices to ensure we uphold the highest ethical standards. The AMWU has a zero-tolerance approach to any fraud, corruption or misconduct, and all staff are required to report any potential fraud, corruption or misconduct in accordance with the union’s Whistleblower Policy. The National Executive Officer has a key role in ensuring compliance with these policies and legislative requirements.

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

In accordance with the AMWU’s WHS Policy, all employees have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own health and safety, and that of others. To meet this commitment, all levels of management shall be held responsible for ensuring all staff are aware of and have agreed to work to this policy. 

UNION POLICIES

The Union is governed by our Union Rules and various legislation. Internal policies, procedures and principles have been adopted to ensure transparency, accountability, good governance, acceptable behaviour and guidance for decision making. All employees must work in accordance with these policies and procedures.

SALARY AND CONDITIONS

• Salary at Officer 6 or 7 of our salary structure ($113,620.23 - $120,458.95) depending on skills and experience.
• Opportunity to work with passionate advocates for workers’ rights.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Generous working conditions including:
  • Monthly RDO
  • Hybrid work from home / office model
  • 12.5% superannuation
  • 17.5% annual leave loading (pro rata basis)
  • Additional Christmas shutdown leave

SELECTION CRITERIA (ABILITIES, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE)

Essential:

• Demonstrated commitment to union values and principles.
• Tertiary qualifications in economics or public policy or equivalent experience.
• Quantitative skills, including ability to access, prepare and analyse data, (including by using statistical tools) and report in a variety of graphical and text formats.
• Strong knowledge and experience working in economic analysis, policy analysis or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results working to deadlines, under minimal supervision and managing multiple tasks and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills including written and oral communication for a wide range of audiences and formats.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and with diverse stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Understanding of industrial relations.
• Experience in a union or member-based organisation
• Experience developing industry policy.
• Strong knowledge and experience working in labour economics.
• Familiarity with political relationships with key government offices and departments.  

TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria via the "Apply Now" button.

For any enquiries, please contact Joshua Newton at [email protected] using the subject line: National Economic Research Officer - Granville, NSW / Carlton, VIC enquiry via EthicalJobs.