Senior Graphic Design, Editorial, & Communications Co-Op

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority•Boston, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of Performance Management and Innovation (OPMI) at the MBTA focuses on developing and tracking performance metrics, implementing strategic initiatives, and utilizing data analysis to enhance the rider experience. OPMI also functions as an internal research lab, addressing research questions to understand transportation network interactions. This office is dedicated to problem-solving and creative thinking, offering co-ops opportunities to engage in various projects, training, fieldwork, tours, and conferences. Co-ops will gain experience in managing multiple projects, collaborating across departments, and working with diverse datasets. The Graphic Design, Editorial, & Communications Co-Op will be responsible for designing and maintaining OPMI's publications and communications across multiple formats, with a key focus on enhancing OPMI's web presence through microsites, the MBTA Data Blog, and the MassDOT Tracker. This role involves conveying analytical findings to various audiences through compelling visualizations tailored to the target audience. The ideal candidate is self-driven, detail-oriented, independent, proactive, and organized. They will collaborate closely with OPMI analysts and researchers to communicate project findings through various media, including reports, diagrams, charts, graphs, infographics, presentations, web postings, and posters, as well as creating or editing accompanying narratives. OPMI operates on a hybrid model, requiring staff to be in the office 2-3 days per week, with Tuesdays and Thursdays designated as all-staff days. The office is located at 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, and is accessible via transit and to people with disabilities. The position is a full-time, 40-hour per week role (9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday) for at least six months (January – June). A laptop will be provided for remote work. Applicants are required to submit a resume, cover letter, and work sample/portfolio link. The MBTA is willing to train on technical skills, prioritizing candidates interested in their research questions and willing to learn.

Requirements

Enrolled, for entire duration of employment, in the graduate / Master’s degree program of an accredited college / university.
Excellent writing skills.
Above average sense of visual design.
Strong interest or experience with data governance, familiarity with some open data platforms.
Above average proficiency with standard office software (e.g. Microsoft office) or relevant technical tools.
Above average ability to communicate effectively in English, both in written and oral forms.
Highly organized, self-motivated, and detail oriented.
Demonstrated interest in public transportation, urban planning, engineering, public policy, or public service.
Proven ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within diverse, fast-paced environments.
Ability to commute independently to assigned work locations within the Greater Boston metro area, as required by the role.
Authorized to work in the United States (international students in CPT, STEM, or OPT programs through a university are eligible to apply).
Must have a valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting pre-employment screenings / pre-boarding, working in their positions, and throughout the duration of their program.
Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op.

Nice To Haves

Above average proficiency with web design tools.
Quantitative / analytical perspective, with ability to communicate technical findings to non-technical audiences.
Above average experience with Adobe Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with others to create and maintain OPMI website.
Gain familiarity with broad range of OPMI projects and programs to create communications and materials, compelling to diverse audiences, in accurate and meaningful ways.
Creatively generate visual content (infographics, flowcharts, handouts, report layouts, etc.) for marketing, communications, and training.
Identify, organize, and select information relevant to creating narratives that can be communicated in various media.
Contribute to the writing and editing process for OPMI web posts.
Manage web content.
Proofread and edit documents and materials for others.
Participate in team / staff meetings, organizational events, fieldwork, project teams, or other duties as assigned.
Provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experience.
Perform all other duties and projects assigned.