The Department of Economic Research (DER) is seeking an Economic Data Visualization Specialist to enhance the accessibility and impact of its workforce and labor market data. Reporting to the Director of Strategy and Engagement, this role focuses on transforming complex data into clear and engaging visual products that support decision-making across government, industry, and the public.
The Economic Data Visualization Specialist will design, develop, and maintain data visualizations such as interactive dashboards, infographics, and reports. This work requires a strong combination of technical and visual communication skills to ensure products are accurate, user-friendly, and aligned with data release schedules. Responsibilities also include ensuring proper data citation and applying best practices in usability and accessibility, including compliance with standards for alternative formats.
Working closely with research and data production teams, the Economic Data Visualization Specialist will help establish efficient data pipelines to support timely updates and consistent delivery of high-quality visualizations. In addition, this position will contribute to internal capacity by developing training materials and guidance to help staff and external stakeholders effectively use data visualization tools and resources. The role will also provide graphic design support for presentations and publications.
Ideal candidates will have experience working with large datasets and creating interactive visualizations using tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms. Proficiency in Excel and programming languages such as R or Python for data preparation is valuable, along with familiarity with databases. Strong attention to detail, time management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.
Duties Include:
Create, update, and maintain various data visualizations as assigned including interactive dashboards, self-service visualization tools, and infographics
Updates public-facing resources in alignment with data release schedules, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and proper citation
Works with research and data production staff to develop reliable, accurate, automated data pipelines for visualizations
Develops and updates training/support materials and guidance to help DER staff and external stakeholders improve their use of data visualization tools and systems
Oversees accessibility compliance for public-facing visualizations including alternative data formats
Provides additional graphic design support for presentations, reports, and other projects
Other duties as assigned
Preferred Job Qualifications:
Experience working with large data sets to create interactive visuals and dashboards
Proficiency in Tableau and other data visualization and statistical software (Datawrapper, PowerBI, R Shiny, etc.)
Experience using Excel and other software (R, Python, etc) for reformatting data, establishing data pipelines, and generating charts and graphs
Experience working with databases and data lakes (Snowflake, etc)
Knowledge/understanding of data visualization best practices, methods, accessibility, etc.
Excellent accountability, attention to detail and ability to follow direction
Good time management skills with an ability to juggle multiple projects and deadlines
Ability to exercise sound judgment and use discretion when handling confidential information
Proficiency in graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite
Note on Preferred Qualifications: The Department of Economic Research is committed to hiring individuals that are public service driven and help provide a diversity of perspectives and insights into the state of the economy in Massachusetts. We encourage capable, mission motivated applicants to apply even if they don’t meet 100% of the above qualifications. Many of the knowledge, skills, and abilities above can be substituted with experience and/or taught through on-the-job training with DER experts.
About the Department of Economic Research
The Department of Economic Research produces and distributes various data, research, analysis, and additional resources to state and regional policymakers, workforce development agencies, and others interested in better understanding the Massachusetts labor market.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full time, or equivalent part-time, professional, administrative or managerial experience in business administration, business management or public administration the major duties of which involved program management, program administration, program coordination, program planning and/or program analysis, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the-required experience.*
II. A Graduate degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for the required experience.*
III. A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major other than in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
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An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
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