Outdoor Recreation Data Collector

Outdoor Recreation Data Collector

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council seeks candidates for the position of Outdoor Recreation Data Collector. This role supports the development of a publicly accessible regional outdoor recreation database and website that will improve public awareness of and access to outdoor recreation across the state by conducting site visits and documenting recreation assets at major open spaces across Greater Boston. The position is project-based and involves travel throughout the MAPC region to collect field data as needed. The Data Collector will visit various parks and open spaces owned by DCR, The Trustees and Mass Audubon. Site visits will be selected based on needs and priorities identified during project discussions.

MAPC is the Regional Planning Agency (RPA) serving the people who live and work in metropolitan Boston. Our strategic priorities are sustainable development, regional collaboration, and fostering an equitable and resilient region. We are guided by our regional plan, MetroCommon2050: Shaping the Region Together. MAPC's staff includes approximately 120 full-time employees located in downtown Boston in a transit-accessible and bike-friendly office.

This position will be working offsite and will not be expected to come into the office regularly. Employees must reside within a commutable distance from MAPC's downtown Boston office.

This position will be in the Land Use Department and work as part of a project team alongside three full-time MAPC employees. The Outdoor Recreation Data Collector will report directly to the Outdoor Recreation Project Manager and be supervised by the Land Use Generalist Manager. The Project Manager will accompany the Data Collector to the first field visit(s) to help establish the data collection approach.

Responsibilities (including but not limited to)

• Conduct site visits (several sites each day) to major outdoor recreation spaces across Greater Boston (generally within the I-495 area) to collect information on locations, site descriptions, photographs, and accessibility features of recreation assets such as trail heads, parking lots, restrooms, picnic areas, etc;
• Enter and manage collected data in project databases and tracking systems (Excel, Airtable);
• Spend approximately 65% of time conducting fieldwork outdoors and 35% on office work data entry and administrative tasks;
• The employee may work from home or other a remote location for the majority of office work hours, and is only expected to come into the MAPC office occasionally for project check-ins.
• Support stakeholder interviews related to outdoor recreation data collection efforts, as needed.

This position is required to drive throughout the MAPC region to conduct fieldwork, using a vehicle rented through MAPC's corporate Zipcar account. Candidates must have an active valid driver's license.

Qualifications

Candidates for this position should have at least two years of professional experience and an associates degree or higher, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Successful candidates for this position will demonstrate all or most of the following:

• Ability to follow assignment instructions carefully and accurately;
• Strong attention to detail in collecting and recording field data;
• Reliability and punctuality for scheduled data collection assignments;
• Ability to complete and submit assignments in a timely manner;
• Ability to work independently while conducting fieldwork outdoors; and
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with parks, open space systems, and communities across the Greater Boston region;
• Interest in parks, open space, and outdoor recreation within a regional planning context; and
• Experience with or interest in GIS applications is helpful but not required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time (up to 3+ hours) during field data collection; and
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain, navigate uphill areas, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat.

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to arrange Zipcar rentals, navigate safely, and drive to locations throughout the Greater Boston region (generally within the I-495 beltway, and including extensive highway driving) for field data collection activities, using MAPC's corporate Zipcar account. The Data Collector is not permitted to use a personal car due to insurance considerations.

Start/End Date:

• Expected to start in July through August 2026, with the possibility of an extension into early fall depending on overall work hours and project needs.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is a paid position with an hourly rate of $18.00 - $23.00, depending on qualifications. We are seeking up to 30 hours per week, with flexibility.

MAPC will cover the costs of the Zipcar rentals needed to make site visits. The Data Collector will be responsible for picking up and returning the Zipcars at the appropriate locations.

How to Apply:

Apply online at The position is open until filled, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume. Candidates selected to interview will be asked to submit three (3) references. Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the USA. MAPC participates in E-Verify, which is a federal program that helps us to determine work eligibility in the United States. MAPC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a staff with a range of perspectives, experiences, and skillsets strengthens our work. We are committed to building a more equitable workplace that allows staff with diverse backgrounds and identities to thrive, grow, and lead. For more information on MAPC's culture of equity, see our Equity at MAPC page.