Stewards’ roles

  • Be a full URA-AFT member in good standing
  • Attend training to become an effective union representative
  • See that the union functions well and accomplishes its goals of serving the members in the workplace
  • Be a workplace leader, representative, organizer, and communicator

Key Roles: 

  • Serve as first line of contact for members when workplace problems occur. These may include violations of the contract and/or non-grievable issues.
  • Contract enforcement
  • Employer/union liaison
  • Supportive guide

Responsibilities in addition to the duties of building rep, URA Stewards receive training and learn the basics of: 

  • The URA-AFT contract
  • Rutgers University Policies and Procedures that apply to our membership
  • The URA-AFT Grievance procedure
  • How to distinguish between complaints & grievances
    • For non-grievable issues, the steward may provide advice and ongoing guidance to the member and/or meet with the supervisor to help resolve the problem.
    • How to investigate, write up, and present a grievance
    • Interview member to determine the nature and scope of the problem. In cases of potential contract violations, set up a step 1 informal meeting with the supervisor and file a grievance form. See the contract for time lines for the grievance process. Represent member in step 1 meeting and coordinate future meetings as needed.
  • Advise lead campus steward and/or union staff of problems and grievances.
  • Help mobilize members to attend union events and activities, and to participate in legislative action alerts or other forms of advocacy.
  • Help educate and inform members about the contract and any subsequent agreements with management.
  • Be eligible for an incentive program for recruiting full-dues paying members.

Be eligible for stipend of $75/month, based upon activities as reported to Lead Steward.