Intern, Boston Indicators

Department: Public Affairs

Reports To: Senior Research Manager, Boston Indicators

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt        FTE: <.5

Supervises: None

Hybrid Schedule (subject to change): On-site 1 day/week (preference for Tuesday or Thursday)

Position Budgeted: $25/hr

Position Summary:

Boston Indicators, the research center at the Boston Foundation, is seeking an intern to contribute to research projects that explore issues affecting Greater Boston, such as demographic trends, housing, jobs and the economy, education, community health, the racial wealth gap and economic insecurity. The intern will assist with analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data, collaborate with Boston Indicators staff to improve communication strategies, and provide general support under direction of the Senior Research Manager. The intern will also have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in the field of data analysis and research.

This role will work in a hybrid environment with a mix of in-office and virtual work for a total of 4-14 hours per week for approximately 3 months, with the possibility of extension.

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with qualitative research by participating in participant interviews, coding interviews, and supporting analysis of themes; 
  • Conduct descriptive data analysis in Excel or R using U.S. Census Bureau and other publicly available sources;
  • Contribute to drafting of written reports based on research findings; 
  • Identify research topics and questions for potential research projects on issues that affect Greater Boston;
  • Communicate research findings in ways that are accessible to a range of non-technical audiences; and
  • Attend online and in-person research forums.

Qualifications:

  • Junior/Senior in college or equivalent knowledge/experience;
  • Knowledge of basic descriptive statistics like calculating percentages and familiarity with using pivot tables, graphs, and formulas in Excel. Experience with data analysis in R is a plus; 
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to organize, express, and communicate ideas in a clear, succinct, and accurate manner;
  • Ability to successfully prioritize tasks;
  • Capacity to work with evolving priorities and timelines; and
  • Flexible, collegial, and supportive toward colleagues.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands:

  • Ability to work at workstation for long periods of time;  
  • Ability to use a computer keyboard for extended periods of time; and  
  • Ability to work on-site and remotely, as required.


The content is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It is not intended to constitute an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents, who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act or applicable state law, must be able to perform the essential functions of the job (including those listed above) either with or without reasonable accommodation.  Reasonable accommodation, if any, will be determined by management in consultation with the employee on a case-by-case basis.

This job description is intended to be general and may be revised from time to time. At management’s discretion, the employee may be assigned different or additional duties from time to time.