Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and dynamic individual to oversee four critical initiatives: (i) Building a Local Governance Ecosystem in Chennai, (ii) Supporting the establishment of worker-owned cooperatives in Chennai, (iii) Organizing and Unionizing women workers,  and (iv) Sex and Sexuality initiative. The ideal candidate will split their time primarily between the Local Governance and Cooperatives initiatives (approximately 15 hours each per week), with the remaining time allocated to the rest of the initiatives. 

Responsibilities:

General Requirements:

• Education: Masters in Sociology, Social Work, Human Rights, History, or related humanities background. 

• Language Skills: Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking in Tamil and English.

• Experience: At least 2 years of working experience within the development sector, with a focus on community organization and development.

• Skills:

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite.

  • Comfortable working with diverse populations from all socio-economic backgrounds.

  • Willingness to travel as required.

  • Ability to run social media campaigns (specifically required for the Union initiative).

Specific Initiative Roles and Requirements:

1. Local Government Liaison: ECTE is currently looking for an individual to build the ecosystem and needed infrastructure to empower the Urban Government institution. ECTE aims to strengthen the Greater Chennai Municipal Corporation (GCMC) by improving corporation procedure rules, building capacity for elected representatives, and establishing a multi-stakeholder e-governance portal.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify the current state of foundational requirements for a well-defined and functioning municipal corporation.

• Monitor the functioning of the GCMC and recommend improvements.

• Collaborate with rights organizations and pioneering institutions like PRS and Praja (Training and other support will be provided by ECTE and Praja).

• Learn and implement best practices from international organizations and cities.
  
  

Specific Requirements:

• Keen interest in local government institutions and challenges faced by various stakeholders.

• Ability to think through needs such as education and information campaigns, media presence, and building narratives.

• Experience working with elected representatives at local and state levels.

2. Cooperatives Organizer: The Cooperatives initiative supports the establishment of worker-owned cooperatives in Chennai, following extensive research on worker needs. This effort is following a 9-month long research initiative to identify various groups of workers in the city along with their needs to further their lives, livelihoods, and overall well being. ECTE is looking for an individual to take on the role of Cooperatives Organizer.

Key Responsibilities:

• Study and Implement the key objectives and results of the research project undertaken by ECTE and members of ICA Dominus Trust (IDT: Dr.Pitchai, and Mr. Mohit Dave).

• Engage in discussions with partnering organizations to build a roadmap for forming worker-owned cooperatives. 

• Plan both tactical and strategic outreach efforts.

• Advocate for cooperatives in various forums.

• Maintain relationships with community partners, educators, and stakeholders.

• Organize workshops and discussion sessions focused on workers' rights and cooperatives.

Specific Requirements:

• Interest in the institution of cooperatives and their benefits for members.

• Knowledge of cooperative laws and regulations - training and exposure will be provided by ECTE.
  
  

3. Union Coordinator & Administrative Secretary: ECTE was instrumental in setting up an all-women trade union to support different informal trades performed by women in Chennai in October 2023. ECTE is looking for an individual to take on the role of union coordinator & administrative secretary.

Key Responsibilities:

• Similar responsibilities as the Cooperatives Organizer, with an additional focus on union-related activities like Legal Compliance.
  
  

Specific Requirements:

• Experience with unionization and community organizing.

• Ability to manage social media campaigns.

• Ability to read, write and speak Tamil. 

4. Sex and Sexuality Networking and Outreach Liaison: ECTE is currently developing a comprehensive sex and sexuality education curriculum for children and adults in Chennai. ECTE is looking for an individual that can help with networking and outreach for this initiative.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network and conduct outreach for the Sex and Sexuality initiative, specifically with public schools in Chennai

• Build relationships with relevant stakeholders and communities.

• Develop and implement informational campaigns and drives.
  
  

Specific Requirements:

• Experience in networking and outreach within the context of sex and sexuality rights and education.

• Ability to work sensitively with diverse communities on these issues.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Compensation for the role is set at Rs. 28,500/month. 

• Leave (Paid Time Off) and other benefits will be discussed after the candidate is selected. 

• Work location will be in Chennai, but the individual must be required to take on regular local commute that will be reimbursed by ECTE.

Union Secretrary - Workers Centre Program >