The H-1B immigration classification is intended for individuals coming to the United States to perform services in what can be considered to be a “specialty occupation.” Current U.S. immigration regulations define specialty occupation as "an occupation which requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and attainment of a bachelor's or higher degree for the specific specialization (or its equivalent in experience)."
The H-1B is employer-specific and salary-specific, meaning that the H-1B beneficiary must be an employee of the H-1B petitioning employer (UMass), and may only receive compensation from that employer in the specified amount of contractual salary.
Processing times vary but it is best to apply 6 months before the employment start date.