Shop Stewards

It is the shop steward's job to represent the members in the shop. Stewards are the leaders of action on the shop floor, and they are also the conduit of information to and from the union. Stewards are the eyes and ears of the union in the shop.

Remember, as a Shop Steward, you are a ‘Key Link’ between management and members, everyone is depending on you to maintain the highest standards of excellence and quality!

Shop Stewards are the ‘Key’ Link, Code of Conduct

Sometimes being a steward can seem like a thankless job—the boss is on your case, and you can never satisfy every single member, and meanwhile, you still have your job to do. It's a tough job, but there is no more important job in the entire union.

New York New Jersey Regional Joint Board and Workers United Shop Stewards are accountable for & committed to:

1-Treating all Union Members, Staff and Representatives with quality, dignity and respect.

2- Maintaining confidentiality of information provided in confidence,and protecting a Members right to privacy.

3- Promoting and supporting the values and objectives of New York New Jersey Regional Joint Board and Workers United at the workplace and community in which we live.

4- Upholding, the New York New Jersey Regional Joint Board, Worker United ‘Vision’ Statement.

5- Promoting collaborative working relations with employer.

6- Attending regular Shop Steward and General Meetings of theUnion, and to keep members informed of Union business andcurrent issues.

7- Encouraging employees to join and become active in the Union and all Union programs.

8- Providing fair and equal representation of Members at the workplace, as well as making decisions regarding such matters.

9- Representing Union Members on Union-Management committees,focus groups, operational committees and safety committees or any other committee germane to the contract or workplace.

10- Providing information to members and managementrepresentatives on the Collective Agreement, and monitorcompliance at the workplace.

11- Assisting Members in times of difficulty at the workplace.

12- Assisting in the resolution of problems, conflicts and grievancesbetween Members, or between Members and the Employer, as perdispute resolution or grievance procedures.

13- Taking training needed to perform the duties of a Shop Steward being a visible, positive,respected and credible representativeof the Union at the workplace.

14- Making decisions on the relevance and importance of grievances; determining if the grievances are violations of the contract or gripes. Additionally, either withdrawing the grievance, or moving it forward as needed.  Explaining the reason for either decision to the member or members involved. Getting back to the member in a timely fashion; in person, by phone or in writing.

15- Maintaining accurate records and notes of all activities involving the Union and its members, this is to include grievances, policy meetings and the like.

16- Maintaining a positive and approachable image and persona.