shop steward duties and responsibilities

Union contracts generally include what is called a “no-docking” arrangement in which the steward is typically permitted to use part of his or her workday or workweek for union-related duties, such as disciplinary meetings, grievance investigations, arbitration and contract negotiations, without any loss in pay or benefits. Unlike other union representatives, stewards work on the shop floor, connecting workers with union officials at regional or national levels. Their role is to be the first contact when an employee is faced with a work. Additionally, the clause will grant the elected union officials, stewards and members leaves of absence for union business. A shop steward is a person elected as a Union representative in the workplace.

Additionally, when an employee is believed to have violated company policy or the CBA, the steward duties are to represent and defend rank-and-file employees in investigatory interviews (in accord with employees’ Weingarten Rights), that are reasonably expected to result in disciplinary action, and through the grievance procedure.Ĭollective bargaining agreements generally include a steward clause in which the union steward will be granted the right to engage in union activity at work and conduct union business on work time.

Continuing education may help you develop the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential to succeed as a union representative. The role of the union steward is to represent the nonmanagement employees commonly referred to as the “rank-and-file” and to be a link and conduit of information between the rank-and-file and the union leadership.ĭuties of a steward vary in accordance to each labor union’s constitutional mandate for the position but generally include informing the workers of their rights under the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) monitoring and enforcing the provisions of the CBA and ensuring employer compliance with federal, state and local laws. While it may be unnecessary for advancement to such a position, shop stewards frequently pursue more education or possess bachelor's degrees. Shop Steward Handbook If you are currently a NAPE Shop Steward, you can view the NAPE Shop Steward Handbook which is a handy and valuable resource for Stewards at the following link: Shop Steward Handbook CLICK HERE. On occasion, this position can be appointed by a higher union body. The position is a voluntary position and is generally elected by fellow workers through democratic election. As union members, we are all responsible for advocating respect and justice on the job and making sure we stick up for each other. A union steward, also known as a union representative or shop steward, is an employee of an organization or company but is also a labor union official who represents and defends the interests of his or her fellow employees.

Shop steward duties and responsibilities