Smart Growth America seeks a skilled and versatile Research Analyst to support and conduct technical and quantitative analyses regarding a wide variety of issues associated with the built environment and transportation, including economics, real estate, social equity, and the environment.
Position description
An ideal Research Analyst will be someone with a passion for data and quantitative analysis—and the ability to translate that into compelling, persuasive research. We are looking for someone to work with Smart Growth America’s staff to develop and execute research on smart growth development, and to communicate the results with our target audiences. Ultimately, this person’s work will provide evidence-based advice to governments about the impact of building sustainable communities.
Responsibilities
The Research Analyst will work on a variety of quantitative projects, including, but not limited to:
- Conducting fiscal impact analyses and refining Smart Growth America’s fiscal impact model;
- Analyzing metropolitan development and real estate market trends;
- Analyzing transportation trends at the regional, state and national level;
- Analyzing affordable housing strategies/policies;
- Estimating revenue potential of various “value capture” plans to finance new transit or other community benefits;
- Analyzing return on investment for transportation projects;
- Analyzing market potential and developing pro-formas for specific real estate development opportunity sites;
- Developing and calculating metrics, by which a place or community may assess its economic, social equity, and environmental performance;
- Writing reports, and preparing and/or delivering presentations to clients.
Requirements
A successful candidate will have a demonstrated interest in smart growth development, as well as a degree in economics, real estate, urban planning, geography, or a related field. One-to-three years of related work experience is ideal; a graduate degree may substitute for lack of experience. In addition, successful candidates will have the following skills:
- Basic knowledge of federal transportation data sets, transportation modeling, ESRI’s ArcGIS platform, and statistical concepts;
- Experience analyzing and synthesizing large amounts of data to the most salient points;
- Familiarity with demographic and economic data sources including the US Census and the Bureau of Labor Statistics;
- Basic knowledge of zoning, affordable housing policies, and real estate finance;
- Detail-oriented and motivated to be accurate;
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and online research;
- Strong writing skills;
- Ability to work as part of a team, prioritize, and efficiently deal with multiple assignments and projects;
- A self-starter, capable of learning on the job when necessary.
Salary, benefits, and location
Salary commensurate with experience. This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), and paid vacation and sick time. This position reports to the Vice President for Economic Development.
To apply
Please send a cover letter, a resume and two writing samples (no more than two pages each) to [email protected] with “Research Analyst” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted immediately on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal opportunity and having a diverse staff are fundamental principles at Smart Growth America. Employment and promotional opportunities are based upon individual capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation/preference, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as established under law.