Data Collection and Research Intern

• Review digital zoning and wastewater infrastructure data submitted by member municipalities and integrate it into a central database. Edit the data as necessary using ArcGIS software; convert municipal GIS data to standard format. Coordinate with municipal staff to collect missing data or clarify content.

• Review and interpret zoning attribute data provided by member municipalities and conduct additional zoning bylaw research to complete and confirm all zoning district attributes.

• Digitize paper/HU maps or convert image files to spatial data.

• Conduct research and quality assurance for MAPC’s online Development Database; research the status, attributes, and location of development projects; moderate submissions to the online map tool.

• Edit, geocode, or verify other spatial data as needed.

• Build relationships with other agencies and allied organizations

• Respond to email and telephone data inquiries from municipalities and allied organizations

• Perform other duties as necessary

• Advanced undergraduate or graduate student in urban planning, geography, or a related field

• Demonstrated experience with ESRI software, including ArcGIS and ArcCatalog

• Strong data management skills, with a personal commitment to the quality of resulting data products

• Strong organizational and time management skills, including the ability to coordinate multiple, complex data collection activities in the field and the office

• Strong oral and written communication skills

The following are preferred qualifications for the position:

• Experience with creation and management of geodatabases.

• Experience with Microsoft Access

• Experience working with diverse data sets from federal, state, and local agencies

• Demonstrated innovative, strategic and analytical capabilities, self-motivation and goal-oriented approach

• Familiarity with Metro Boston municipalities and regional planning issues

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

Compensation will be $14-$18 per hour, commensurate with experience.  Internship period of at least 12 weeks between September and December 2012.  No benefits.

ABOUT MAPC

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) is the regional planning agency serving the people who live and work in the 101 cities and towns in Metropolitan Boston. Our mission is promoting smart growth and regional collaboration. 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 was recently awarded a $4 million Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant to support implementation of MetroFuture, the region’s groundbreaking plan for sustainable growth and development (www.metrofuture.org).

The Data Services Department is a nine-member team of planners, GIS analysts, and web programmers engaged in a wide variety of regional planning activities. The Department is a national leader in scenario modeling, 3-D visualization, spatial analysis, and regional indicators. Over the past few years, the Data Services Department has:

• Developed the Metro Boston Data Common, an on-line web mapper and data viewer (in partnership with The Boston Foundation).

• Pioneered the use of interactive map websites, online social media games, and digital survey tools to engage members of the public in planning activities.

• Prepared demographic, employment, and land use projections for 164 municipalities in Metro Boston to support regional transportation planning.

• Developed a comprehensive model of regional growth and development to support regional planning and policy development.

• Championed the use of decision support tools such as Community Viz modeling, scenario visualization, and wireless keypads.