Communications Specialist

Communications SpecialistThe Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) seeks a Communications Specialist to support a multimonth web content development project. This short-term position will focus on drafting, revising, organizing, and preparing public-facing web content that helps explain the MPO's work clearly and accessibly to a wide range of audiences.The Communications Specialist will work closely with the Manager of Communications and Engagement, who will lead the web content project. The person in this role will help convert technical and policy information into clear, plain-language content; coordinate content review with subject-matter experts; and support the preparation of website materials for publication.ResponsibilitiesDrafting, revising, and editing public-facing web content about the MPO's programs, projects, planning processes, data resources, engagement opportunities, and related workConverting technical, policy, and planning information into clear, accessible, plain-language content for public audiencesCoordinating with subject-matter experts across the agency to gather information, confirm accuracy, resolve questions, and incorporate feedbackOrganizing, formatting, and preparing content for publication in the agency's web content management systemApplying plain-language, accessibility, and inclusive communication principles to web contentReviewing existing website content and recommending revisions to improve clarity, consistency, usability, and accessibilitySupporting quality assurance for assigned web content, including checking links, reviewing formatting, confirming consistency with agency style, and identifying content gaps or questionsHelping maintain project tracking materials related to content development, review status, approvals, and publication readinessSupporting other communications tasks as needed and as time allowsQualificationsWhile the following sections describe required and desirable qualifications, candidates who believe that their particular experience and skills fulfill the requirements are encouraged to apply.Required qualifications include the following:Professional experience writing and editing public-facing content for digital, web, government, nonprofit, advocacy, policy, planning, journalism, or similar communications contextsStrong plain-language writing and editing skills, including the ability to make complex information clear, accurate, and useful to nontechnical audiencesAwareness of digital accessibility principles and an interest in creating communications that are inclusive and accessible to people with diverse needs and backgroundsAbility to coordinate review processes with multiple contributors, incorporate feedback, and keep assigned work moving forwardStrong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple content assignments and deadlinesDesirable qualifications include the following:Experience working in a content management systemExperience with project tracking tools or systemsExperience working in the public sector, transportation, urban planning, civic engagement, public policy, or related communicationsFamiliarity with the Boston region and its transportation systemsFamiliarity with website usability, information architecture, search engine optimization, or content strategyCompensation and BenefitsThis is a full-time, short-term position beginning in August and continuing through October 2026, with the possibility of an extension. The compensation range is $32 to $36 per hour, contingent upon qualifications and experience.The Boston Region MPO is a public agency made up of a passionate group of transportation planners, analysts, modelers, programmers, and engineers working to address the Boston region's transportation challenges. The agency's deep transportation knowledge is an essential asset to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), regional transit authorities, cities and towns within the region, as well as other agencies and stakeholders.The agency has a hybrid schedule, combining time in the office with remote work. Employees must reside within a commutable distance from the Boston Region MPO office, which is located in downtown Boston, in a transit-oriented and bicycle-friendly area.Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States.The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) is the fiduciary agent and legal employer of the Boston Region MPO staff. Both organizations are Equal Employment Opportunity employers that take pride in the diversity of their workforces and encourage all qualified persons to apply. MAPC participates in the E-Verify system to confirm employment eligibility. MAPC and the Boston Region MPO may consider sponsorship on a case-by-case basis.This position is open until filled, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. First consideration will be given to those applicants who apply within the first 14 days. When applying for this position, please upload both a resume and cover letter via bostonmpo.org/careers. Candidates are asked to submit three references plus three samples of relevant writing.