Job description

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Office of Research and Innovation seeks a Data Scientist at the Principal level. The role requires a deeply curious person with strong statistical, analytical, and programming skills and will be responsible for collecting, processing, analyzing, and interpreting large datasets to support the mission of ARC, the regional planning and inter-governmental coordination agency for the 11-county Atlanta region. ARC’s mission is to consider issues from a regional perspective and work with community partners to plan the investments and programs needed to improve quality of life for all residents of the Atlanta Region. • Data collection and cleaning: Collect structured, unstructured, and spatial data from public, administrative, and proprietary sources, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Create novel databases and geographic features using web scraping, crowd sourcing, or other techniques. Clean raw data for processing and analysis. • Data management: Aggregate, transform, and organize data. Conduct geoprocessing (such as spatial merges and joins). Organize data and metadata. • Statistical analysis: Perform rigorous descriptive and predictive data analysis. Validate and refine models to ensure accuracy and reliability. • Data visualization: Create interactive data visualizations and dashboards to translate findings to stakeholders. Present complex data in an understandable manner. • Communication: Prepare written and presented content to summarize key findings. Communicate to both technical and non-technical audiences using data storytelling. • Collaboration: Work with cross-functional teams to identify data needs and deliver data-driven solutions. • Continuous learning: Stay updated on the field of data science. Engage in continuous learning and professional development. Education: Master’s degree in Data Science, Urban or Regional Planning, Economics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. Experience: Two years of experience in data science, data analytics, or a related field. OR An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above, unless otherwise subject to any other requirements set forth in law or regulation. CV, cover letter, writing sample (peer-reviewed, technical report, web publication, etc), skills assessment (respond to a data analysis request, provide sample code, create visualizations, and write a short narrative report) • Technical Skills: o Quantitative research design and methodologies, including statistical and machine learning techniques. o Statistical software and programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, Stata and/or SPSS. o Spatial analysis in ArcGIS. o Developing or maintaining interactive applications (such as data visualizations) using JavaScript platforms or other code-based tools. o Familiarity with no-code and low-code tools such as Tableau or Power BI. o Knowledge of version control systems like Git. o Knowledge of natural language processing, machine learning, and generative artificial intelligence o Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure. • Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and capability to interpret complex data sets. • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to present data findings clearly and concisely. • Soft Skills: High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Adaptability, curiosity and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Requirements