Research & Planning Analyst- New York City
Organization: New Yorkers for Parks
Position Title: Research & Planning Analyst
Location: 55 Broad Street, 23rd Floor, New York, New York, 10004, United States
Hours and Compensation: full-time, $50,000-$55,000
Application Deadline: October 11, 2013
Start Date: January 2, 2014
Organization Overview
New Yorkers for Parks (NY4P) is the citywide independent organization championing quality parks and open spaces for all New Yorkers in all neighborhoods. For more than 100 years, New Yorkers for Parks has worked toward this mission with a focus on equitable park services that are delivered efficiently and effectively. New Yorkers for Parks achieves its purpose through a framework of research, advocacy and strategic partnerships.
Description
NY4P has a rich history of producing research products that directly inform its policy positions and advocacy campaigns. The Research & Planning Analyst will work with the Director of Research, Planning & Policy to develop and implement a research agenda for NY4P that examines park system management, funding for parks and the role of parks in public health, community development, and economic and environmental sustainability.
This position requires a demonstrated ability to develop and carry out high-quality research and produce polished research products. Candidates should have an interest in urban planning, public policy, community and economic development, advocacy, and New York City. NY4P seeks a self-starting individual with strong research and people skills, outstanding writing ability, and excellent computer skills. Candidates must have the ability to initiate and complete long-term projects as well as the flexibility to work as part of a collaborative office environment. Qualified candidates will have statistical capabilities and proficiency in all Windows based programming and Arc Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The position requires a valid Driver’s license and willingness to drive throughout the city.
Responsibilities
– Coordinate the Open Space Index Project, which provides neighborhood-level open space assessments of communities across the city. Includes hiring, training, and supervising field surveyors; conducting data analysis; writing final reports; liaising with a graphic designer to design the final publications; and disseminating assessment results to relevant stakeholders.
– Manage the Report Card on Parks Project, NY4P’s independent maintenance survey of parks and beaches. This involves hiring, training, and supervising field surveyors; overseeing accurate and timely collection of data; liaising with an independent database manager and statistician to conduct data analysis; writing reports; and presenting results to relevant stakeholders.
– Conduct research and writing on various other projects in coordination with the Director of Research, Planning & Policy, including the City Council District Profiles, the Crime in Parks project, and policy papers on issues such as concessions in parks and public-private partnerships.
– Perform GIS analysis for all Research & Planning projects and create maps to support the work of other departments.
– Monitor New York City zoning and planning actions, real estate development plans and community initiatives impacting parks. Evaluate their potential effects on open space, advise the organization in formulating its position on such projects, and develop strategies to advocate for improvements. Attend public hearings, prepare and deliver testimony, and coordinate dissemination of relevant information to the public.
– With the Director of Research, Planning & Policy and the Executive Director, craft the organization’s positions on park policies and issues. Includes monitoring park-related legislation and initiatives at the City, State, and Federal levels; writing and delivering testimony; representing NY4P at meetings; and acting as a liaison to public officials’ offices.
– In coordination with the entire staff, build and maintain good working relationships with partner groups and stakeholders, including Administration and City Council staff, parks “friends of” groups, and citywide advocacy groups.
– Contribute to the organization’s communication efforts, particularly those that are research and policy related, both on its website and through social media outlets and e-newsletters.
– Contribute to the development and execution of programmatic events such as Parks Advocacy Day and the Daffodil Project.
– Present to the Board of Directors on relevant issues and work products as required.
– Work with Development and Finance staff on fundraising efforts as needed.
– Participate in organizational activities including staff meetings, strategic planning, and other administrative tasks.
– Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Master’s degree in urban planning, public policy or related field, at least three years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of advanced education and related experience.
How to Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, writing sample and references to Alyson Beha at [email protected].
