Strategic Communications & Development Specialist

Job Information
Job no: 529800

Position Type: Staff Full Time

Campus: UMass Boston

Department: Ctr for Mass Bays Natl Estuary

Pay Grade: 32

Date opened: 22 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 24 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

General Summary
The Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Partnership (MassBays, see massbays.org) is one of 28 National Estuary Programs established under the federal Clean Water Act, Section 320. The MassBays planning area extends from Salisbury, MA to Provincetown, MA, and encompasses more than 50 communities along Ipswich Bay, Massachusetts Bay, and Cape Cod Bay. MassBays' unique management structure includes regional coordinators hosted by five partner organizations, providing direct connections with local communities and decision makers. MassBays' work is guided by the 2023 Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), which describes the programs, tools, and partnerships to realize our vision of a network of healthy and resilient estuaries, sustainable ecosystems that support the life and communities dependent upon them.

With the addition of this new position (Strategic Communications and Development Specialist), MassBays aims to increase visibility and awareness of our work and successes among federal, state and municipal level decisionmakers, potential funders, and strategic partners, all to advance the goals and implementation of our CCMP.

Key Duties

Outreach and communication

Implements the 2026 MassBays' Communications Plan

Develops strategic outreach plans to reach different target audiences and realize desired outcomes.

Manages the MassBays' quarterly newsletter, including collecting articles and content editing.

Coordinates MassBays' social media with regular updates.

Engages with partners to advance common objectives, e.g., convenes focus groups and stakeholder workshops; attends and presents at relevant conferences; and participates in events with opportunities for outreach and development.

Funding and development

Coordinates with the UMass Boston University Advancement team to identify potential funders whose interests align with MassBays' goals, develop targeted messaging for potential funders, and reach out to potential funders and program supporters.

Program support and events

Monitors state policy proposals with the potential to affect MassBays' goals, and works with staff to craft constructive and scientifically based responses.

Coordinates with Director to develop a MassBays Annual Report and other reporting products.

Reviews the final version of grant proposals to be submitted for funding as an editor.

Co-leads planning events that may include, but are not limited to: State of the Bays conference; events in coordination with other NEPs; program evaluation conducted by EPA (every 5 years); events in coordination with UMass Boston and/or other partners.

This position does not include lobbying.

This is a full‑time position (37.5 hrs/week) with funding guaranteed for at least two years. Position may be extended based on availability of funding.

Qualifications

Minimum Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (journalism, communications, public relations, environmental studies). At least three years of relevant experience.

Excellent writing skills, as demonstrated by two writing samples (e.g., press release, newsletter article, blog post).

Excellent interpersonal skills, as evidenced by previous collaborative efforts described in a cover letter. Interest in environmental protection is expected.

Familiarity with Massachusetts state and local government structures is preferred.

Supervision Received: Director, MassBays National Estuary Partnership

Supervision Exercised: None

Salary and Benefits
Salary: This position is a fully benefited position.

Grade: 32

Salary ranges for the appropriate pay grade are available at the university website. This is an exempt union position.

EEO Statement
UMass Boston is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact HR@umb.edu or 617-287‑5150.

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