What is a Shop Steward?

Because your union representative can not be at your workplace around-the-clock, shop stewards who are employed where you work act as on-site representatives.

• They are familiar with your contract and can answer general questions.
• They assist new employees in joining the union and are knowledgeable about the benefits of becoming a member.
• They are familiar with the grievance procedure, and can direct you through the proper steps (in particular, when your union representative is unavailable).
• They are available to help you identify violations of the contract, and can assist you in referencing sections of the contract.
• They act as a liaison between employees and the union.
• They understand problems and challenges facing your department/company, and relay pertinent information to the union.
• They participate in contract negotiations, speak on your behalf, and distribute flyers and information at your work site.
• They attend union meetings, and are kept abreast of union-wide updates & labor issues.

SHOP STEWARD RESOURCES

A Stewards Guide to welcoming new members
Guide for Shop Stewards
Glossary of Union Terms
The 7 Tests of Just Cause

The following information will guide you in your efforts as a Shop Steward. Please refer to this information as often as you see fit.

The following links will take you on an educational tour of knowing what your rights are as a Steward. The pages contained herein will assist you in becoming a better leader for the members and the Union.

Denny Styles, Author       Hem Desai, Publisher  Jimmy Staley, Designer
Copyright © 2007 Teamsters Local 519. All rights reserved.
Revised: 12/25/07.