Communications and Development Specialist

The Maine Aquaculture Association (MAA), is a nonprofit trade association that advocates for the state’s aquatic farmers. Our members grow fish, shellfish, and sea vegetables using a variety of methods. Our infrastructure members provide goods and services to the sector. MAA focuses on farmer training, business support, working waterfront advocacy, public outreach and education, and the development of innovative and proactive best management practices. MAA is seeking to fill a position that works to build capacity for the organization and strengthen the Maine aquaculture community through creative storytelling, community outreach, and farmer engagement.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Communications and Development Specialist will perform the following duties:

• Actively work to build strategic relationships within Maine’s coastal community, including but not limited to aquaculture stakeholders, coastal residents, elected officials, and the commercial fishing community
• Field membership inquiries and actively recruit new members; lead and optimize the membership onboarding process in collaboration with the Office Manager and Executive Director.
• Administer services to members that align with their needs and membership level.
• Design and implement digital campaigns to reach the Maine audience utilizing photo, video, audio mediums
• Conduct community outreach activities including listening sessions, in-person site visits, phone/video calls, webinars, and emails.
• Develop new educational materials and conduct outreach activities in collaboration with the Community Engagement Coordinator and Executive Director.
• Plan and host events to engage the public and stakeholders and promote the aquaculture industry
• Collaborate with other Maine agencies and organizations to achieve our communications goals
• Draft grant proposals and budgets to fund communications & outreach projects
• Undertake special projects and duties as necessary in cooperation with staff, including working our annual fundraiser event, The Big E! in West Springfield, Massachusetts in addition to other various festivals and fairs throughout the year.
• Keep track of work activities and outcomes; prepare end of year reports to funding agencies in collaboration with staff.

A successful candidate will have the following qualifications and attributes:

• 1-3 years experience working in sales, communications, marketing, or membership organizations
• Bachelor’s degree in sales, marketing, communications,  or related field
• Experience planning and executing in-person events, digital marketing campaigns, and community outreach activities
• Customer service experience and/or strong interpersonal skills
• Organized, detail-oriented, professional, energetic, and diligent
• Highly motivated self-starter with a strong ability to generate creative solutions
• Willingness to learn from and contribute to a dynamic, mission-driven team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Skills and experience working in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, WordPress and all major social media platforms in a professional capacity
• Excited about supporting and working alongside Maine’s aquaculture producers and broader seafood community
• Ability to travel somewhat frequently, primarily within Maine is expected
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends for events
• Comfortable spending time on the ocean in boats, on docks, etc.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs

Preferred but not required:

• Experience campaigning, grassroots organizing and/or community building
• Experience in seafood, aquaculture/fisheries, marine biology or related field
• Knowledge of aquaculture industry

Salary range: Starting at $55K annually, commensurate with experience

Start date: October 2025

Location: 339 Water St, Gardiner, Maine

Work Location: Hybrid Schedule Available

Benefits: 2 weeks paid vacation plus 10 paid holidays and flexible PTO, monthly HRA/HSA contribution, 3% retirement match