The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) seeks a Research and GIS Intern to support members of the Data Services department on data assembly, mapping, analysis, and research for local and regional planning projects. Strong experience in Esri ArcGIS and R and/or Python is a must for this position, as is an interest in planning and commitment to working towards a more equitable and sustainable Greater Boston region. Our team works on a large portfolio of projects with departments across the agency, so candidates should be eager to apply their skills to several projects at once, in diverse topic areas. 

Examples of projects past interns have worked on include: 

• Reviewing existing census tract and block group boundaries and adjusting them to reflect population growth and locally recognized boundaries for use in Census 2020
• Researching food waste tonnage, disposal methods, and corresponding emissions to understand the quantity of greenhouse gases emitted from food waste in Massachusetts and strategies for their reduction
• Conducting an inventory of Massachusetts zoning by-laws and recording information for use in land use modelling
• Mapping in support of local Hazard Mitigation Planning projects
• Creating map layouts and templates to streamline mapping at MAPC

This spring, our Research and GIS Intern will likely work on some of the following projects, as time and capacity allows: collection and quality assurance of development data for the MassBuilds database; Digital Equity Program research; developing materials for and helping to plan MAPC’s migration from ArcMap to ArcPro; updating and publishing data for the Arts Indicators database; as well as data requests and emerging projects.  

The intern will be a member of the Analytical Services team in MAPC’s Data Services department. This is a chance to work as part of a diverse, dynamic, and multidisciplinary group seeking to advance regional planning as we serve our member municipalities. To learn more about Data Services, visit www.mapc.org/our-work/expertise/data-services.     

About MAPC

MAPC is the Regional Planning Agency (RPA) serving the people who live and work in metropolitan Boston. Our strategic priorities are sustainable development, regional collaboration, and fostering an equitable and resilient region.  We are guided by our regional plan, MetroCommon2050: Shaping the Region Together. MAPC’s staff includes approximately 100 full-time employees located in downtown Boston in a transit-accessible and bike-friendly office. 

Interns will be working remotely and are not expected to come into the office regularly.  Candidates must reside in Massachusetts while they are working remotely.  

MAPC strongly supports the professional development of each staff person, believing their growth to be consistent with the best interests of MAPC and the region. We encourage all our staff to develop new ideas to make MAPC’s planning and policy work more relevant and impactful, and to adapt to changing times. 

This is an opportunity to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and innovative environment with professionals who are committed to building a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone who lives and works in Greater Boston. For more information about MAPC or MetroCommon2050, please visit www.mapc.org 

• Assembling tabular data. Scripting basic data analysis in R or Python. Preparing summary tables and informative, visually appealing charts.
• Assembling, creating, and editing spatial data. Conducting basic spatial analysis.  Preparing informative, visually appealing maps.
• Communicating progress, methods, and findings to members of the Analytical Services team and to other departments at MAPC.
• Collecting information about developments in Greater Boston and inputting the information into MAPC’s MassBuilds development database; reviewing user submissions to the site.
• Performing other duties as necessary.

The following are required qualifications for the position:  

• Currently enrolled in an academic program and living in Massachusetts
• Proficiency with ArcPro. At a minimum, candidates must be able to join tabular data to spatial data, conduct basic geoprocessing (clip, dissolve, etc.), symbolize data layers, and create and format legends
• Proficiency with R and/or Python. Proficiency in both is preferred
• Proficiency with MS Excel. At a minimum, candidates must be able to assemble multiple datasets and prepare them for use in ArcGIS.
• Strong data analysis skills
• Strong organizational skills, particularly the ability to keep track of and prioritize multiple projects and requests
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal staff and agency partners in visual, written, and oral forms

 The following are preferred qualifications for the position:  

• Experience with ArcOnline web maps and web apps, particularly Experience Builder
• Experience working with diverse data sets from federal, state, and local agencies  
• Familiarity with topics and principles related to regional planning, housing development, and social equity
• Demonstrated innovative, strategic, and analytical capabilities, self-motivation, and goal-oriented approach

 Only candidates currently enrolled in an academic program and living in Massachusetts will be considered for this position. 

Compensation and Benefits:  
This is a paid internship with an hourly rate of $18.00 - $22.00 per hour, depending on qualifications. We are seeking between 10 - 15 hours per week, with flexibility. To qualify as an intern, individuals must be enrolled in an academic program, provide written verification of their status, and agree to a scheduled end date upon hire.  Work will be conducted remotely. 

How to Apply: 
Apply online at www.mapc.org/jobs.  The position is open until filled, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. A review of applications will begin immediately. Please attach a cover letter, résumé, and portfolio that includes a writing sample and GIS project example.  Those who are interviewed will be asked to submit three (3) references.  Only candidates currently enrolled in an academic program will be considered for this position. Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the USA. MAPC participates in E-Verify, which is a federal program that helps us to determine work eligibility in the United States.  
 
MAPC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a staff with a range of perspectives, experiences, and skillsets strengthens our work. We are committed to building a more equitable workplace that allows staff with diverse backgrounds and identities to thrive, grow, and lead. For more information on MAPC’s culture of equity, see our Equity at MAPC page.