Community & Employer Partnerships Manager

Job description

Summary As the Community & Employer Partnerships Manager , you will build strong relationships throughout Boston and connect talented young adults with careers in biotechnology while ensuring employers have access to a highly skilled workforce. You are inspired by working closely with schools, community organizations, employers, and workforce partners, helping to expand access to biotech careers to those who might otherwise not have the opportunity to build strong entry level lab skills jump starting their careers in science all within 9 months. Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, the educational entity of GMGI, delivers a Biotechnology Certificate Program that prepares talented young adults from diverse backgrounds for careers as biotechnology laboratory technicians through immersive, hands-on training in laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and professional skills. Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI) is an independent nonprofit research institute that addresses critical challenges facing our oceans, human health, and the environment through innovative scientific research and education. Position Overview This is a highly relationship-centered, field-based role. You’ll spend most of your week meeting with high schools, community organizations, biotech employers, and Academy partners throughout Greater Boston, while also developing long-term strategies that strengthen the Academy's employer network and enrollment pipeline. If you enjoy building relationships face-to-face, representing an organization in the community, and spending your workweek out in the field rather than behind a desk, this role offers exceptional variety and impact. You'll operate at both a strategic and hands-on level, engaging directly with students, educators, and employers while leading initiatives that improve enrollment and employment outcomes. This role requires sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to build trust, solve problems, and influence diverse stakeholders. This is a highly external, relationship-driven position. The successful candidate will spend much of their time working on-site in Boston and traveling throughout Greater Boston to visit schools, community organizations, and biotech employers. Occasional travel to our Gloucester campus is required for onboarding, meetings, and Academy events. A personal vehicle is required. You'll thrive in this role if you: Build relationships easily and gain energy from connecting with new organizations Like balancing strategic planning with hands-on outreach Enjoy spending much of your week meeting people rather than sitting at a desk Prefer a role where every day looks different Key Responsibilities Industry Partnerships & Workforce Alignment Develop and execute a scalable industry partnership strategy to support co-op placements and long-term employment outcomes Build and manage relationships with biotech and life sciences employers, positioning the Academy as a trusted workforce partner Secure co-op placements and job opportunities for students and graduates Lead employer engagement efforts (events, mentorship, mock interviews, career readiness initiatives) Oversee co-op matching, track outcomes, and use employer feedback to improve programs Support graduates in transitioning to full-time roles or continued education Build and refine systems to scale partnerships and improve placement outcomes Student Recruitment Strategy & Pipeline Development Lead and execute a data-informed student recruitment and enrollment strategy to build a strong, sustainable pipeline that expands access to biotechnology careers and meets workforce demand Manage the day-to-day administration of the student recruitment, application, and enrollment process, including applicant communications, enrollment documentation, and related administrative tasks Build partnerships with Boston high schools, community organizations, workforce agencies, and other student-serving organizations through ongoing outreach and relationship-building. Represent the Academy at school visits, info sessions, and community events Use data and stakeholder feedback to continuously refine recruitment strategy and improve outcomes Plan and lead key recruitment events (e.g., open houses, info sessions, site visits) Qualifications 5+ years of experience in workforce development, employer partnerships, talent pipeline building, or a related field; experience in or familiarity with biotech/life sciences sector preferred Experience building partnerships, developing talent pipelines, and leading external outreach or engagement efforts Familiarity with Boston schools, community organizations, or workforce development networks is a plus Outstanding communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills, with confidence in public-facing roles. Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to navigate ambiguity, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results independently Experience working across teams Familiarity with work-based learning programs (co-ops, internships, etc.) preferred Understanding of life sciences workforce needs and hiring trends Mission-driven, collaborative, and committed to expanding access to biotech careers Why This Role Matters Every week you'll connect students with life-changing opportunities while helping employers build their future workforce. You might spend one day visiting Boston high schools, another meeting with biotech hiring managers, and another hosting prospective students at the Academy. If you're energized by building relationships and seeing the direct impact of your work, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape Greater Boston's biotechnology workforce. Work Environment & Benefits • Competitive salary commensurate with experience • Generous benefits package • Inclusive, mission-driven culture committed to diversity, equity, and opportunity in science and education