If you`re considering a job at the University of South Florida (USF), you may be wondering whether all positions there are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. The answer is no, but there are some important things to know about the agreements that do exist.

First, it`s helpful to understand what collective bargaining is. Essentially, it`s a process in which representatives from a union (which represents workers) and representatives from an employer (in this case, USF) negotiate the terms of a contract that covers workers` pay, benefits, and working conditions. The contract is called a collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Not all USF employees are covered by a CBA, however. In fact, only certain categories of workers are eligible to unionize and negotiate a CBA. These categories typically include faculty, graduate assistants, and certain staff positions, such as custodial workers and food service employees.

For faculty, there are two unions that represent different groups: the United Faculty of Florida (UFF) represents tenured and tenure-track faculty, while the Non-Tenure Track Faculty United (NTTFU) represents non-tenure-track faculty. Both unions negotiate separate CBAs with USF.

Graduate assistants at USF are represented by the Graduate Assistants United (GAU), which negotiates a CBA on their behalf.

Certain staff positions at USF are also represented by unions. For example, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) represents some custodial and maintenance workers, while the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) represents food service and housing employees.

It`s worth noting that not all unions have CBAs with USF at all times. Negotiations for a new CBA can take months or even years, and sometimes unions choose to strike rather than accept what they see as an inadequate offer from the employer. For example, in fall 2021, the UFF went on strike at all 12 of Florida`s public universities (including USF) to protest a lack of raises and other workplace issues.

In conclusion, not all jobs at USF are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. However, some positions are eligible for union representation and negotiation of a CBA. If you`re considering a job at USF, it`s worth researching which union (if any) represents workers in your position and what their current CBA looks like.