Job Description

　　The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, and where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

　　Communications Associate

　　The communications associate will play a vital role in advancing the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education's (DHE) mission to promote excellence and access to higher education. Reporting to the Director of Strategic Communications, the role will support DHE's communication with the media, external stakeholders, and the public and will be central to promoting DHE's work and priorities.

　　The Board and Department of Higher Education

　　The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education ("Board" or "BHE") is the Commonwealth's state higher education authority with coordinating and regulatory authority over all public and private higher education institutions operating in the Commonwealth and authorized to grant degrees. The BHE is staffed by the DHE which is run by a Commissioner who serves as the executive and administrative head of the department, and Secretary to the BHE. Together, the BHE and DHE are the leading voice and advocate for post-secondary education in the Commonwealth, serving critical roles as the state's regulator of state authorization and consumer protection.

　　The Massachusetts System of Public Higher Education ("System") serves approximately 290,000 students annually. The System consists of 15 community colleges, 9 state universities, and 5 University of Massachusetts ("UMass") campuses. Each community college and state university institution has its board of trustees, while the 5 UMass campuses are overseen by the UMass board of trustees. The BHE has coordination and oversight responsibilities for the entire System, including the responsibility to analyze the present and future goals, needs, and requirements of public higher education and to establish goals to achieve a well-coordinated, quality system of public higher education. M.G.L. c. 15A, §1 et seq.

　　In addition, the BHE's authority includes administering state financial aid and federal grants; managing and responding to consumer complaints; conducting financial assessments of institutions; managing employee relations and benefits for public higher education employees; managing collective bargaining contracts with state university and community colleges employees; and approving degree-granting authority for all public and most private higher education institutions operating within the Commonwealth. Currently, there are 82 private institutions of higher education operating in the Commonwealth and authorized to grant degrees.

　　Essential Job Functions

　　• Write and distribute media materials, such as press releases and media advisories.

　　• Create fact sheets, backgrounders, event briefings, talking points, and external-facing DHE updates.

　　• Partner with the Director of Strategic Communications to craft outreach plans for DHE announcements.

　　• Work with DHE colleagues to gather information promptly in response to media inquiries and emerging needs, often in partnership with the Executive Office of Education.

　　• Work with colleagues throughout DHE and external partners to gather information for news pitches, planning, and other external outreach.

　　• Create content for social media and DHE's website and assist with keeping the website up to date.

　　• Conduct research to support DHE communications efforts.

　　• Monitor press coverage, build media lists, and staff events as needed.

　　• Assist with planning and logistics for press events.

　　• Perform other duties as needed to support DHE communications priorities.

　　Please direct any questions regarding the position or hiring process to:

　　[email protected]

　　Qualifications

　　 Required Qualifications

　　• A bachelor's degree.

　　• A minimum of two years' experience in public relations, journalism, or a related area.

　　• Experience writing for social media.

　　• Exceptional writing and communication skills.

　　• Strong attention to detail.

　　Preferred Qualifications

　　• Experience working in a communications role for a higher education or government entity.

　　Skills and attributes

　　• Collaborative approach and ability to work well with others.

　　• Ability to distill complex information into clear and concise narratives.

　　• Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage multiple priorities.

　　• Demonstrated commitment to public higher education and education equity and justice.

　　• High ethical standards and a commitment to transparency and integrity.

　　Reporting Location and Travel

　　• One Beacon Street, Boston, Massachusetts.

　　• In-state hybrid work.

　　• In-state travel to campus and partner organizations.

　　Comprehensive Benefits

　　When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

　　Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

　　An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

　　The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.