SEIU Local 509
 

Communications Specialist

Based in Marlborough, MA

 

ABOUT SEIU LOCAL 509
SEIU Local 509 is a fast-growing, progressive union representing over 28,000 state workers, human service workers, higher education faculty and family child care providers in Massachusetts. This position is part of the Local’s communications department. In the current political environment, the union has a steadfast vision to increase participation and power among its rank-and-file membership.

SEIU Local 509 is part of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), one of the largest and fastest-growing labor unions in the United States.

JOB DESCRIPTION
SEIU Local 509 is hiring a full-time Communications Specialist. In close collaboration with other Union staff and member leaders, the Communications Specialist will assist in the development and implementation of a broad spectrum of strategic Communications plans to advance campaigns and interests of Local 509 members.

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES

• Advance Local 509’s brand as a leading advocate for quality services, family-supporting jobs and strong communities 
• Coordinate with member organizer/leaders in creating, implementing and engaging in various campaigns (both issue- and membership-based)
• Design and produce written and online materials
• Works alongside President, Chapter Presidents, union members, and Communications Team to proactively represent our members and mission
• Drive projects in collaboration with our data and field teams to strategize around how to best use communication tools to increase involvement in union activities
• Curates and enhances content for the union’s website and social media accounts
• Trains members and staff on best practices in communication technology
• Performs related Communications work as required – candidates should be strategic, creative thinkers and skilled multi-taskers who can employ a range of communications tools

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
Reports to the Communications Director

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 3 to 5 years’ experience in communications roles with unions, progressive candidates/elected officials or grassroots organizations preferred
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with demonstrable success distilling complex issues into digestible public-facing messages
• Thorough understanding of digital communications tools, strategies and tactics 
• Ability to conceptualize and design print and digital materials (using tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud, or similar programs)
• Knowledge of common content management programs such as WordPress and social media tools (including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and X)
• Commitment to the labor movement and overall progressive social change, including but not limited to addressing systemic racism, gender parity, income inequality, immigrant rights, and LBGTQIA+ issues (see our Solidarity Principles)
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in rapid response situations
• Willingness to work nights and weekends, including travel throughout the state and some out of state travel
• Must have a driver's license, vehicle registration, and/or intent to purchase a vehicle. Our main office is located in Marlborough, MA, and the position will require travel around the state

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• VAN/EveryAction experience is a plus
• Proficiency with photo and/or video editing software are a plus
• Bilingual skills are a plus (English/Spanish)
• Mobile Commons, Scale2Win/other texting program experience are a plus

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & LOCATION
This is a full-time bargaining unit position based in Marlborough, MA, with some flexibility for local remote work. The salary range for this position is $88,426 – $100,172 depending on experience. Benefits include, at no cost to the employee: health insurance with FSA and HRA, dental insurance, short and long-term disability, a pension, an optional 401k, and generous paid time off.

Must have a driver's license, vehicle registration, and/or intent to purchase a vehicle. Our main office is located in Marlborough, MA, and the position will require travel around the state.

SEIU Local 509 requires new employees to have a record of COVID-19 vaccination or a valid accommodation at the time of hire.

HOW TO APPLY
To apply to this position, please submit an updated résumé and a thoughtfully written cover letter to jobapplication@seiu509.org and indicate “Communications Specialist” in the subject line. The application deadline is September 30, 2025.

Candidates who advance should expect initial in-person interviews at our Marlborough, MA headquarters beginning in late September to early October, followed by a second round interview and a final interview with union leadership. The expected start date is late Fall 2025.

We want to interview the best candidates for our organization. If you think you have the skills to fill the role and serve our mission, even if you don’t meet every qualification in the list, please consider applying. We review all applications thoroughly and are open to considering candidates from many different backgrounds.

If you would like to request accommodation during the interview process, please email mconway@seiu509.org. Accommodation requests will be handled confidentially. Please do not send inquiries about the status of your application.

SEIU Local 509 is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, cultural heritage, ancestry, political belief, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability or veteran status. SEIU Local 509 is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and we are committed to making special accommodations for your interview or work as a member of our team.