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Commonwealth Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Commonwealth. The Veterans Home at Holyoke is staffed by approximately 330 administrators, clinicians, nurses, certified nursing assistants, skilled trade, dietary staff, housekeeping staff ...

Designs, runs, and analyzes financial reports in the Commonwealth's accounting system (MOSAIC), the electronic medical record, and other reporting systems as needed. 18. Troubleshoots issues and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Commonwealth information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$73.9K

$96.9K

$123.6K

How much do commonwealth jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for commonwealth in Amherst, MA is $96,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,100.00 and $104,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commonwealth job?

Commonwealth jobs refer to positions within the government or public service sectors of countries that are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. These jobs can range from administrative and policy roles to technical and professional positions in areas like education, health, and foreign affairs. Working in a Commonwealth job often means contributing to public service, upholding governmental standards, and sometimes engaging in international cooperation among member countries. Eligibility and requirements can vary depending on the country and specific position.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in commonwealth governmental roles?

Professionals in Commonwealth governmental positions often encounter challenges related to balancing diverse stakeholder interests and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. The work environment typically involves collaborating with multiple departments and external partners, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, adapting to evolving public policy priorities and ensuring compliance with both local and Commonwealth-wide regulations can be demanding. However, these challenges also provide valuable opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the public sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commonwealth employee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commonwealth employee, you generally need a solid educational background relevant to your field, analytical abilities, and an understanding of public sector processes. Familiarity with government information systems, data management tools, and, for some roles, specific certifications like project management or policy analysis are often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in collaborative and dynamic government environments. These skills and qualifications are critical for effectively serving the public, ensuring transparency, and contributing to the smooth operation of government services.

What is the difference between Commonwealth vs Paralegal?

AspectCommonwealthParalegal
Required CredentialsVaries by jurisdiction, often includes legal education or certificationLegal assistant certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, government agencies, courtsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal, government, public serviceLegal support roles across various sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding legal roles, qualifications, and career pathsComparing legal support roles and responsibilities

Commonwealth roles often involve legal or governmental functions with specific regional requirements, while paralegals provide legal support across various organizations. Both roles require legal knowledge but differ in scope and certification. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the legal industry.

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Commonwealth jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Commonwealth job openings:

Infographic showing various Commonwealth job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,888 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Office Support Specialist I

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Northampton, MA • On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is excited to offer this excellent opportunity to a motivated and talented individual for the Office Support Specialist I position. This position will support Commonwealth Community Services (CCS) which provides residential, clinical and health related services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Office Support Specialist I will provide administrative support to the Director of the Commonwealth Community Services, Assistant Director, Program Managers and the Residential Supervisors for the five programs within CCS (Berkshire Service Group, Commonwealth Program, Hampden County Program, Pioneer Valley Homes, and Southwest Valley Community Homes).

Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Operates standard office machines and equipment.

  • Schedules staff for all trainings, complete all functions related to the scheduling (reserves space, ensures equipment is operational, maintains documentation for employee attendance, etc.) 

  • Assists with training new employees upon hire.

  • Provides administrative assistance to all CCS management team and clinical teams.

  • Provides administrative support to the Office Support Specialist II.

Please Note:

This position is located in Northampton, MA.

Schedule: Monday through Friday: 8:00am - 4:00pm

Days Off: Sunday/Saturday

About the Department of Developmental Services: 


The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds 

Pre-Hire Process:

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

  • Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:

  • Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry 

  • Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori 

  • National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Office Support Specialist I:
Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in administrative work experience or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below:
Substitutions:
I.   An Associate's or higher degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for the required experience.
II. An Associate's or higher degree with a major other than in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required experience. 
Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
Educational substitutions will only be permitted for a maximum of two years of the required experience.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.