Communications and Development Associate

Reports to: Development Director

Type: Part-Time, Hourly

Rate: $24/hour up to 20 hours per week

Benefits: May be eligible for Paid Time Off (PTO)

The Communications & Development Associate supports The Center for Wooden Boats’ mission by executing day-to-day communications, marketing, membership, and development support activities. This fully on-site, part-time position plays a key role in storytelling, community engagement, and fundraising operations for a vibrant, public-facing maritime organization.

Working closely with the Development Director and collaborating across departments, the Associate is responsible for producing high-quality communications, supporting members and donors, and providing operational support for development initiatives.

Specific Job Functions

Communications & Marketing - 60%

• Write, edit, proofread, schedule, and manage content across digital platforms, including social media, eNewsletters, website updates, and all advertisements.
• Primary ongoing outputs include regular social media posts, a monthly eNewsletter, membership communications, timely website updates, and promotion of programs, classes, events, and campaigns.
• Create and edit graphics and visual assets using Canva and/or Adobe in alignment with established brand standards.
• Maintain accuracy and timeliness of website content, calendars, and program information.
• Support marketing and promotional efforts for organizational initiatives in coordination with the Development Director and program staff.
• Manage digital assets, including photos and graphics, in coordination with staff and volunteers.
• Ensure all communications reflect CWB’s mission, values, and commitment to inclusion and community access.

Membership & Donor Support - 30%

• Support day-to-day membership operations, including processing new memberships and renewals.
• Serve as a welcoming and professional point of contact for member and donor inquiries, providing timely responses and appropriate follow-up.
• Assist with donor and member acknowledgments, renewals, and routine stewardship communications.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date member and donor records in Salesforce, including basic data hygiene and coordination with the Development Director as needed.
• Support member appreciation initiatives and engagement communications.

• Development & Administrative Support 10%
• Provide administrative and logistical support for fundraising campaigns, appeals, and events.
• Assist with development mailings, outreach, and follow-up activities.
• Support preparation and execution of donor, member, and community events.
• Participate in “all-hands-on-deck” efforts during peak fundraising and program periods, with this work increasing during high-volume times such as the annual auction and major appeals

Qualifications and Skills

Required:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Demonstrated initiative, organization, and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams).
• Proficiency with Canva and Adobe.
• Experience working with digital graphics.
• Experience using Facebook and Instagram for organizational communications.
• Familiarity with Salesforce or demonstrated ability to learn CRM systems quickly.
• Comfort working with websites and content management systems (e.g., Squarespace).
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a small team.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Signing of a Non-Disclosure Agreement is required.

Strongly Preferred:

• Experience in nonprofit communications, marketing, membership, or development.
• Experience with email marketing platforms such as Mailchimp.
• Familiarity with donor- or membership-based organizations.
• Experience working with volunteers and community-based programs.
• Basic understanding of digital content strategy and audience engagement.
• Interest in or familiarity with maritime culture, boats, or waterfront environments.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position requires frequent sitting, standing and movement around the office, lifting 30 pounds; ability to operate phones, computers, and other office equipment; strong command of the English language with the ability to be understood.

Generally, in an open office environment with occasional visits to external environments. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Disclaimer:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. All CWB employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed, to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Center for Wooden Boats is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orentation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

This is a part-time, hourly position paying $24 per hour, up to 20 hours per week. The position may be eligible for Paid Time Off (PTO), in accordance with organizational policy. This role does not include health insurance or retirement benefits.

Additional perks include working for a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to public access, education, and preservation of maritime heritage; a collaborative and supportive workplace culture; and a fully on-site role within a unique, public-facing waterfront campus.

Staff work in close proximity to CWB’s historic and contemporary fleet, active sailing school, boat shop, and public livery, gaining daily exposure to small craft, traditional skills, and on-the-water programs serving thousands of community members each year. The role offers regular interaction with sailors, students, volunteers, and maritime professionals, and provides a dynamic work environment rooted in boats, craftsmanship, and life on the water.

Strong written and verbal English communication skills with excellent attention to detail