Senior Ridership Analytics Co-Op
Role Overview
The Ridership Analytics Co-Op will provide analytical support across the office but primarily within the ridership team, which analyzes and reports on ridership to internal and external stakeholders.
These analyses typically involve extracting data from a SQL database and analyzing it using software such as Python or R to either answer a research question or provide data to a stakeholder who has requested it.
Related tasks may involve creating interactive dashboards or slide decks to summarize findings.
A successful candidate will be detail-oriented and have a curiosity for data of all types and how it can be used to support decision-making.
Key Skills for This Role
Full Job Posting
About the Department
Working in OPMI The Office of Performance Management and Innovation (OPMI) develops and tracks performance metrics for MassDOT and the MBTA and implements strategic initiatives with a focus on data analysis to improve rider experience. Some examples of OPMI’s work can be seen on the MBTA Performance Dashboards , the Data Blog , and the MBTA’s Open Data Portal . OPMI also operates as the MBTA/MassDOT’s internal research lab. We answer research questions developed both internally and externally to help us better understand how people interact with the transportation network. Some examples of OPMI’s research work include this neighborhood-level ridership analysis and this survey analysis of frequent riders’ transit use . We are an office devoted to problem-solving and creative thinking, and there are many opportunities for co-ops to participate in this exciting work. Co-ops will also have the opportunity to participate in training, fieldwork, tours, conferences, and other learning opportunities as available. By the end of their co-op, they will have gained experience managing multiple concurrent projects, collaborating with multiple departments across the MBTA and MassDOT, and working with many datasets to answer a variety of real-world questions. What does work in OPMI look like? This is a full-time, six-month position. Co-ops are expected to work 40 hours/week from 9:00AM – 5:00PM. OPMI is a hybrid office , meaning co-ops will need to work in-office on Tuesdays and Thursdays but can work remotely on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. OPMI is currently working as a “hybrid” office, including both remote and in-office work, and is expecting to continue to do so in the January 2027 co-op cycle. The office is set up “hotel” style, where staff members have no assigned desks, and book space when they expect to come in. Staff are expected to come into the office twice a week—on all-staff Tuesdays and on another day to be chosen in consultation with their manager—and can choose to work in the office or remotely for the other days. Office arrangements are subject to change based on public health guidance, and some reasonable accommodations can be made. OPMI will provide a laptop that can be taken home for work. Our office is located at 10 Park Plaza in downtown Boston and is accessible via transit and to people with disabilities. Position Summary The Ridership Analytics Co-Op will provide analytical support across the office but primarily within the ridership team, which analyzes and reports on ridership to internal and external stakeholders. These analyses typically involve extracting data from a SQL database and analyzing it using software such as Python or R to either answer a research question or provide data to a stakeholder who has requested it. Related tasks may involve creating interactive dashboards or slide decks to summarize findings. A successful candidate will be detail-oriented and have a curiosity for data of all types and how it can be used to support decision-making.
The Office of Performance Management and Innovation (OPMI) develops and tracks performance metrics for MassDOT and the MBTA and implements strategic initiatives with a focus on data analysis to improve rider experience. Some examples of OPMI’s work can be seen on the MBTA Performance Dashboards , the Data Blog , and the MBTA’s Open Data Portal .
OPMI also operates as the MBTA/MassDOT’s internal research lab. We answer research questions developed both internally and externally to help us better understand how people interact with the transportation network. Some examples of OPMI’s research work include this neighborhood-level ridership analysis and this survey analysis of frequent riders’ transit use . We are an office devoted to problem-solving and creative thinking, and there are many opportunities for co-ops to participate in this exciting work. Co-ops will also have the opportunity to participate in training, fieldwork, tours, conferences, and other learning opportunities as available. By the end of their co-op, they will have gained experience managing multiple concurrent projects, collaborating with multiple departments across the MBTA and MassDOT, and working with many datasets to answer a variety of real-world questions.
This is a full-time, six-month position. Co-ops are expected to work 40 hours/week from 9:00AM – 5:00PM. OPMI is a hybrid office , meaning co-ops will need to work in-office on Tuesdays and Thursdays but can work remotely on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
OPMI is currently working as a “hybrid” office, including both remote and in-office work, and is expecting to continue to do so in the January 2027 co-op cycle. The office is set up “hotel” style, where staff members have no assigned desks, and book space when they expect to come in. Staff are expected to come into the office twice a week—on all-staff Tuesdays and on another day to be chosen in consultation with their manager—and can choose to work in the office or remotely for the other days. Office arrangements are subject to change based on public health guidance, and some reasonable accommodations can be made. OPMI will provide a laptop that can be taken home for work. Our office is located at 10 Park Plaza in downtown Boston and is accessible via transit and to people with disabilities.
The Ridership Analytics Co-Op will provide analytical support across the office but primarily within the ridership team, which analyzes and reports on ridership to internal and external stakeholders. These analyses typically involve extracting data from a SQL database and analyzing it using software such as Python or R to either answer a research question or provide data to a stakeholder who has requested it. Related tasks may involve creating interactive dashboards or slide decks to summarize findings. A successful candidate will be detail-oriented and have a curiosity for data of all types and how it can be used to support decision-making.
Position Duties
- Gain familiarity with the broad range of data sources used at OPMI to contribute to new and ongoing projects. Work with supervisors to respond to data requests in a timely manner. Analyze datasets up to several million records to extract findings. Create dashboards, charts, and slide decks to help communicate findings to a wide range of technical and non-technical audiences. Contribute to regular ridership reporting processes such as monthly ridership and fluctuations. Perform QA/QC on new and existing datasets to validate data. Perform ad hoc analyses as needed to support operations across the MBTA and MassDOT. 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. Additional responsibilities may focus on one or more specific departments or locations (refer to department-specific addendums or hiring manager guidance). Perform all other duties and projects assigned. * The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Gain familiarity with the broad range of data sources used at OPMI to contribute to new and ongoing projects.
- Work with supervisors to respond to data requests in a timely manner.
- Analyze datasets up to several million records to extract findings.
- Create dashboards, charts, and slide decks to help communicate findings to a wide range of technical and non-technical audiences.
- Contribute to regular ridership reporting processes such as monthly ridership and fluctuations.
- Perform QA/QC on new and existing datasets to validate data.
- Perform ad hoc analyses as needed to support operations across the MBTA and MassDOT.
- 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.
- Additional responsibilities may focus on one or more specific departments or locations (refer to department-specific addendums or hiring manager guidance).
- Perform all other duties and projects assigned.
- * The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Minimum Qualifications
- Currently enrolled and maintaining active status for the entire duration of employment in an accredited graduate / Master’s degree program. Above average attention to detail. At least one year of experience with SQL. At least one year of experience with Microsoft Excel. At least one year of experience working with large datasets. Some knowledge of QA/QC best practices. Data curiosity and desire to “dive in.” 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). The MBTA does not provide visa sponsorship, such as H1-B status. * The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required.
- Currently enrolled and maintaining active status for the entire duration of employment in an accredited graduate / Master’s degree program.
- Above average attention to detail.
- At least one year of experience with SQL.
- At least one year of experience with Microsoft Excel.
- At least one year of experience working with large datasets.
- Some knowledge of QA/QC best practices.
- Data curiosity and desire to “dive in.”
- 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). The MBTA does not provide visa sponsorship, such as H1-B status.
- * The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required.
Other Qualifications
- Experience with analytical software such as Python or R. Quantitative/analytical perspective, with ability to communicate technical findings to non-technical audiences.
- Experience with analytical software such as Python or R.
- Quantitative/analytical perspective, with ability to communicate technical findings to non-technical audiences.
Benefits
- This position is not eligible for benefits through the MBTA. However, some positions might be eligible to incur paid sick time or to receive a complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system. Please speak with the assigned recruiter or email [email protected] for more information.
Supplemental Questions
01
Not Currently Enrolled in School / Already Graduated
High School / GED / VoTech
Undergrad: 1st Year
Undergrad: 2nd Year
Undergrad: 3rd Year
Undergrad: 4th Year
Grad School: 1st Year
Grad School: 2nd Year
Grad School: 3rd Year (or higher)
Postdoctoral Studies
02
Accounting / Finance
Agriculture
Architecture
Archives Management
Biology
Business / Business Admin
Business Information Systems
Chemistry
Communications
Computer Science
Construction / Construction Management
Data Analysis
Database Administration
Diversity Management / EEO
Earth Science
Ecology
Economics
Education
Engineering (Aerospace)
Engineering (Civil)
Engineering (Electrical)
Engineering (General)
Engineering (Mechanical)
Engineering (Structural)
Entrepreneurship
Environmental Services
Ethics
Facility Management
General / Interdisciplinary Studies
Graphic Arts / Design
Human Resources / Human Capital
Information Technology
Insurance / Risk Management
Law (Business / Corporate)
Law (Juris Doctorate)
Law (General)
Library / Information Science
Logistics / Supply Chain Management
Maintenance
Management
Management Information Systems
Marketing
Medical / Health Services
Network Administration
Nonprofit Organizations
Nursing
Organizational Development
Payroll / Benefits Administration
Physics
Planning and Development
Political Science
Production / Operations Management
Project Management
Public Policy & Administration
Public Relations
Purchasing
Real Estate
Robotics
Safety
Software / Programming
Statistics / Actuarial Science
Transportation
Urban Planning
Other
No Major
03
Yes, I am actively taking classes.
No, but I am enrolled and will start soon.
No, but I plan to enroll soon.
04
Already Graduated
2026 (September - December)
2027 (January - March)
2027 (April - May)
2027 (June - August)
2027 (September - December)
2028
2029
2030+
05
Part-Time (up to 35 hours / week)
Full-Time (35 to 40 hours / week)
Any
06
Less than 3 Months
3 Months
6 Months
9 Months
12 Months / 1 Year
More than 1 Year
07
Always Onsite / In-Office
Fully Remote
Hybrid
08
Yes; I agree and am able to independently commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area.
No; I do not agree or am not able to independently commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area.
09
Yes
No
10
CPT / OPT Currently (with MBTA listed as employer)
CPT / OPT In-Process or Need to Apply (may affect start date)
11
No Experience
Beginner / Basic
Intermediate / Average
Advanced / Above Average
Expert / Excellent
12
13
Very Low / None
Low
Moderate
High
Very High
14
15
Less than One
1 - 2
3 - 4
5+
16
17
18
19
Yes, I will physically be in the U.S. for at least 30 days prior to the start date of this position.
No, I will be traveling or otherwise not in the U.S. within the month prior to the start date of this position.
Required Question
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