Who We Are
SEIU Local 503, Sub-local 083, is our union for classified staff at Oregon State University. We are the thousands of dedicated employees who make this university work. We are administrative assistants, IT professionals, custodians, groundskeepers, food service workers, lab technicians, and so much more. We work in every college, department, and building, providing the essential services that support students, faculty, and research.
Our members are the backbone of OSU, and together, we advocate for the respect, fair pay, and safe working conditions that all university employees deserve.
Our Mission
To empower Oregon State University's classified employees by negotiating for fair contracts, defending our workplace rights, and fostering a united community to ensure a just and equitable environment for all.
What We Do
Defend Your Rights
We ensure management respects our contract and protects members from unfair treatment through our trained steward network and legal support.
Negotiate Strong Contracts
We bargain collectively for fair wages, affordable healthcare, a secure retirement, and safe working conditions for all classified staff.
Build Worker Power
Through organizing and collective action, we build the power necessary to make OSU a more just and equitable place for everyone. Our power is in our numbers and solidarity.
Our History
For decades, SEIU Local 503 has been a powerful force for working people at Oregon State University and across the state. Our local at OSU was formed by a group of dedicated classified employees who understood that by uniting, they could win the pay, benefits, and respect they deserved. Through years of organizing, contract negotiations, and collective action, we've secured vital protections and improvements that have lifted up thousands of workers and their families. Our history is a testament to the power of solidarity, and we continue to build on that legacy every day.
Our Core Values
Solidarity
We believe that we are stronger together. An injury to one is an injury to all.
Equity
We are committed to fighting for fairness and justice for all workers, regardless of background.
Democracy
Our union is run by its members. Every member has a voice and a vote in our direction.
Integrity
We operate with transparency and are accountable to our membership in all that we do.
Our Structure
We are a member-led, democratic organization with a structure that empowers workers at every level. Our local at OSU, Sub-local 083, is part of the statewide SEIU Local 503, which represents over 72,000 public and non-profit workers across Oregon. SEIU 503 is, in turn, a part of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), an organization of 2 million members united to improve lives and the services we provide in Canada, the United States, and Puerto Rico. This structure connects our local efforts at OSU to a powerful statewide and international movement for worker justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Union?
A union is a democratic organization of employees in a workplace who join together to have a collective voice and improve their working conditions. By uniting, we have the power to negotiate a legally binding contract with our employer that covers things like wages, benefits, workplace safety, and job security. Instead of individuals having to negotiate on their own, we bargain as a group, giving us much more strength.
What is the difference between a Member and a Non-member?
All classified employees are covered by the benefits and protections of the contract our union negotiates, whether they are a member or not. However, our union is a democracy, and only members have a direct voice. Members have the exclusive right to vote on the contract, elect our leadership and bargaining team, and run for office. Becoming a member is a choice to actively participate and have a say in our collective future. Our power to win strong contracts comes from high membership, which shows management that we are united.
How are dues collected and used?
Union dues are an investment in our collective power and are automatically deducted from members' paychecks. They fund everything we need to win strong contracts and defend our rights. This includes the cost of skilled negotiators, legal support for grievances, organizing resources, training for volunteer stewards, and communications to keep everyone informed.
I have questions but am a Non-member, can I still get answers and help?
Absolutely. We believe in the rights and dignity of all workers. If you have questions about your rights at work, our contract, or what our union does, please reach out. We are happy to provide information and help you understand the benefits of joining your coworkers to build a stronger workplace for everyone.
Who runs our union?
Our union is a democracy run by its members. We elect our own leaders from among our coworkers here at OSU. These elected officers, who you can see on our Leadership Page, volunteer their time to run the local, lead negotiations, and represent our collective interests. Major decisions, like approving a contract or changing our bylaws, are made by a vote of the membership.
How does our union decide what to negotiate for?
Our bargaining priorities come directly from the members. Before contract negotiations begin, we conduct a comprehensive bargaining survey where all members can share their priorities and concerns. This feedback is used by our democratically elected bargaining team to develop our official proposals. We also hold meetings to discuss and refine these priorities. The final contract must then be approved by a vote of the members.
What are my rights in a disciplinary meeting?
You have the right to union representation in any investigatory interview with management that you reasonably believe could lead to discipline. These are called your "Weingarten Rights." You must clearly state that you want a steward present, as management is not required to inform you of this right.
How can I get more involved in our union?
There are many ways to get involved! Attending membership meetings is a great first step. You can also volunteer for a committee, help with events, or talk to your coworkers about becoming members. For those who want to take on a larger role, you can become a trained union steward to represent your colleagues. Check our Events page for upcoming meetings and opportunities.
Ready to Join Us?
Our strength is our members. Join our union to build a better Oregon State University for all classified staff. Your voice and participation are critical to our success.
Become a Member Today