Planning and GIS Intern



Planning and GIS Intern

Salary

$17.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Location

Boston, MA

Job Type

Internship

Job Number

DS-AUG18-PGISI

Department

Data Services

Opening Date

08/08/2018

Description

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council seeks a Planning and GIS Intern for MAPC's Data Services Department.
 
The Planning and GIS Intern will assist in organizing, interpreting, mapping, and visualizing demographic and geographic data for a wide variety of regional and local planning projects and data requests. The ideal candidate will be familiar with ESRI ArcGIS software and will have strong technical analysis and graphic presentation skills. The intern will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of regional and local planning projects, including smart growth land use planning, local rezoning efforts, open space and recreation plans, and transit-oriented development in diverse communities across Metro Boston. This is an opportunity to work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment focused on using data and analysis to support regional planning and policymaking.
 
The Data Services Department is an innovative and collaborative team of 14 full-time planners, analysts, researchers, programmers, and IT professional. As a department, we provide mapping, digital, and analytical services in support of MAPC's local and regional planning activities by developing new datasets, conducting original research, preparing demographic and land use forecasts, and serving as a valuable resource for municipalities, state agencies, and community organizations. To learn more about Data Services, visit www.mapc.org/our-work/expertise/data-services.
 

Responsibilities (including but not limited to)

  • Creating custom maps using ArcMap
  • Basic spatial analysis
  • Digitizing and editing spatial data
  • Organization and interpretation of demographic and land use data
  • Responding to data requests from other MAPC colleagues and from the public
  • Perform other duties as necessary

Qualifications

The following are required qualifications for the position:
 

  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program
  • Training and experience (either academic or applied) using GIS
  • Proficiency with ESRI software, including ArcMap and ArcCatalog
  • Strong data management and organizational skills, with a personal commitment to the quality of the product(s)
  • Ability to communicate effectively with internal staff and agency partners
 
The following are preferred qualifications for the position:
 
  • Experience with data management best practices.
  • Familiarity with cartographic principles and technical methods, including labeling
  • Familiarity with topics and principles related to smart growth, regional planning, sustainable development, and social equity.
  • Experience with SQL, Python, and R.
  • Basic familiarity with design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.
  • Experience working with diverse data sets from federal, state, and local agencies.
  • Demonstrated innovative, strategic and analytical capabilities, self-motivation and goal-oriented approach.
 
Only candidates currently enrolled in an academic program will be considered for this position.
 

Compensation will be $17 - $21, commensurate with experience. This is a paid, part-time (10 – 25 hours per week) internship with flexibility. The position is for the fall of 2018, and will last 12 weeks beginning in September and continuing through December. To qualify as an intern, individuals must be enrolled in a course of study, provide written verification of their status, and agree to a scheduled end date upon hire.
 
About MAPC
MAPC is the Regional Planning Agency serving the people who live and work in metropolitan Boston.  Our mission is to promote smart growth and regional collaboration. We are guided by MetroFuture: Making a Greater Boston Region, our regional policy plan for a more sustainable and equitable future, which was adopted in 2008.  We work toward sound municipal management, sustainable land use, protection of natural resources, efficient and affordable transportation, a diverse housing stock, public safety, economic development, an informed public, and equity and opportunity among people of all backgrounds.    MAPC's staff includes approximately 75 full-time employees located in downtown Boston in a transit-accessible and bike-friendly office. For more information about MAPC and MetroFuture, please visit: www.mapc.org/about-mapc and https://www.mapc.org/get-involved/metrofuture-our-regional-plan/.
 
How to Apply

MAPC's Data Services Department is seeking multiple interns at this time including a Planning and GIS Intern, a Housing Research Intern, and a Transportation Research Intern. Please see our other postings at www.mapc.org and apply for all positions for which you are interested and qualified.
 
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting August 15, 2018.
 
Please attach a cover letter, résumé, and portfolio that includes a writing sample and GIS project example. Those who are interviewed may be asked to submit three (3) references. The position is open until filled. Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the USA.
 
MAPC is an EOE/AA employer. MAPC takes pride in the diversity of its workforce and encourages all qualified persons to apply.
 
Please apply online through the MAPC website: www.mapc.org.
 

No included benefits.

Agency
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)
Address
60 Temple Place

Boston, Massachusetts, 02111
Phone
(617) 451-2770