North Cook News

Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Dist. 9) seeks to hire a dream candidate — someone willing to give up everything for seven days a week for $2,000 per month — yet advocates a $15/hour minimum wage, and something doesn’t add up.

The “Fight for 15” movement gaining momentum nationwide advocates for at least $2,400 per month, assuming a worker puts in a regular 40-hour week. The Fight for $15, which began with New York City fast food workers striking for $15 an hour and union rights, has now become a global campaign spanning more than 300 cities.

New York State, California, Seattle and workers in many major U.S. cities may have won their fight, but if Schakowsky contracts with an individual to become her field organizer, calculations indicate that person’s hourly wage would plummet to $8.33, given the level of dedication and availability demanded by the position — not including overtime.

While no one can argue the value of accepting a low-paying position as a youthful newcomer to the working world, to gain valuable internship-style experience and credentials, or because of a particular passion or cause, this particular post stipulated that the position requires an experienced professional with proficiency in office skills, software and social media. Managerial duties are included, and the staffer must provide their own laptop, cell phone and transportation.

Additionally, Schakowsky’s job posting expressed a desire for a “low-drama” type who could pledge availability and presence in her office for seven days per week, with “long and irregular” hours.

Schakowsky is facing Republican candidate Joan Lasonde in the November election.