Who we are:

The nonprofit Urban Institute is dedicated to elevating the debate on social and economic policy. For nearly five decades, Urban scholars have conducted research and delivered evidence-based solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities across a rapidly urbanizing world. Our objective research helps expand opportunities for all, reduce hardship among the most vulnerable, and strengthen the effectiveness of the public sector.

How you’ll contribute:

The Institute is seeking a Data Visualization Developer to join our growing Visual Communications team. This team is responsible for the interactive features – maps, tools, graphics, long-form and multimedia stories – that are published on urban.org and related websites. To fill this Data Visualization Developer role, we are seeking a talented and multi-faceted visual thinker. The person occupying this new position will work closely with scholars, senior leadership, and the Communications department to translate research needs and meet the growing demand for interactive data visualizations, data-rich multimedia features, and user-focused tools and applications on Urban Institute's website.

This is a unique opportunity to deliver Urban's vital research to an expanding audience and explore the possibilities of telling stories with data.

Responsibilities:

Serve as an in-house developer and strategist for an organization of economists and social scientists
Develop research-based tools, features, and applications for urban.org, related microsites, and major research projects
Work as a junior member of a strong visual communications team that is managing more than a dozen projects at any given time
Partner with researchers to develop evidence-based products that make data interesting and accessible
Set accurate timelines and budgets and deliver projects accordingly

What you’ll bring:

Essential Skills:

Strong knowledge of data visualization theory and practice, including the ability to communicate complex data to non-technical audiences

BA, BS or BFA in Computer Science, Journalism, Design, Statistics, Information Science, or other field with equivalent experience
3-5 years professional experience with strong portfolio of data visualization projects required

Creating interactive graphics in d3.js

Front-end web development using HTML, CSS, and Javascript and associated helper libraries (such as jquery, bootstrap css, modernizr, etc.)

Cleaning and analyzing data (using R, Python, Ruby, Stata, or others)

Ability to meet deadlines and work both as an individual contributor and as part of a team of professionals

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects at once

Preferred knowledge:

General back-end coding (such as Python, Ruby, Node.js, C++, or similar)
Git and Github
Adobe Creative Cloud Apps
Statistics
Linux Servers (specifically AWS servers)
PHP and the Drupal CMS environment
ggplot2
Graphic design, user-experience design, and/or motion graphics
Advanced techniques for charting in M

What you’ll experience:

Working in the Nation’s Capital- the epicenter of public policy- among a network of policy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters and, enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination and intolerance.
In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan plus elect a pretax benefit for commuting expenses.

The Urban Institute is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status under applicable law.

The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer --Minorities/Women/Disabilities/Veterans.

Please apply directly at www.urban.org or https://urban.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Urban-Careers/job/The-Urban-Institute-DC/Data-Visualization-Specialist_R-800202-1