Community Planning & Data Analyst

Are you driven by curiosity, passionate about progressive policies, and energized by collaboration and innovation? JM Goldson seeks a detail-oriented, analytical thinker who approaches challenges like a scientist, ready to explore data, draw fresh conclusions, and uncover impactful insights that advance equitable land use, sustainability, and community authenticity.

In this impactful role, your analytical rigor and creative curiosity, especially in GIS, model building, and data storytelling, will amplify our ability to advocate for equitable outcomes and support inclusive community planning across New England.

You will:

• Conduct spatial and computational analyses and create compelling data visualizations.
• Provide insights into housing, real estate markets, zoning, and community trends to inform equitable planning solutions.
• Support meaningful community engagement through analyzing and clearly presenting community input data.
• Develop systematic processes ensuring accuracy and consistency in data handling and reporting.
• Collaborate across the team and with clients, contributing actively to a supportive, dynamic think-tank environment.

About JM Goldson

We’re a small, entrepreneurial, and nimble firm passionate about creating equitable, sustainable, and authentic communities. At JM Goldson, you’ll have significant growth opportunities, supported by a culture that values learning, encourages experimentation, and supports you in shaping your own path toward leadership and deeper impact.

Why Join Us?

• Join a team that values curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to thoughtful planning that serves the public good and advances opportunity for all.
• Benefit from our hybrid work model, balancing productivity with genuine flexibility and regular team connections.
• Participate in a vibrant company culture featuring regular team days, meetings focused on strategy and innovation, daily huddles, body doubling sessions, celebrations of personal milestones, and enjoyable team field trips.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $69,000 - $85,000 (based on experience)
• 40 hours per week with a hybrid schedule (minimum two in-office days/week in Roslindale, MA)
• 100% employer-paid single-person health insurance
• 401K with 4% employer match
• Three weeks paid vacation, one week paid sick time, 11 federal holidays, and 16 hours paid professional development annually
• Professional development support (AICP certification, conferences, memberships)

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, geography, data science, or a closely related field.
• Familiarity with principles of community planning.
• Proficiency in demographic and market analysis.
• Expert-level proficiency with ArcGIS Pro, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Demonstrated experience creating clear and engaging data visualizations.
• Strong organizational skills, detail orientation, and logical thinking.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in planning, geography, data science, or a closely related field.
• Three or more years of professional experience as a research analyst in academic or consulting settings.
• Experience with Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Canva, AI-driven tools such as ChatGPT, SurveyMonkey, R, Stata, or Python,
• Experience with ArcGIS StoryMap, Experience Builder, or Survey123

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

JM Goldson actively promotes equity through our internal practices and external community work. This role directly supports our inclusive vision by leveraging data to identify and address equity gaps in community planning.

How to Apply

Our dynamic team seeks someone excited by the challenge of impacting communities positively and eager for personal and professional growth. We look forward to your application!

📩 Send resume & cover letter to our Recruitment Team at [email protected]
📌 Subject: “Community Planning & Data Analyst Application”
📆 Deadline: Rolling applications until filled.

JM Goldson is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.