CORE Data Service Lab Intern - PlayCore

Summary

PlayCore is seeking a Graduate Research Assistant to join the Data Service Lab for the 2026 spring semester. As part of the Center for Outreach, Research, and Education (CORE), the Data Service Lab serves as a trusted, data-driven partner for park and recreation agencies nationwide. Our mission is to help communities advocate for and invest in high-quality outdoor, play, and recreation spaces using best-practice designs. By combining innovative data services, applied research collaborations, and community-focused analysis, we translate research into practical tools that advocate holistic health and community vitality. Through our portfolio of data tools and storytelling approaches, we empower park and recreation professionals to make data-informed decisions, advocate effectively, and communicate the impact of their work.

This role will expand the Data Service Lab's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) capabilities to enhance how we use location intelligence and spatial analysis in our work. The ideal candidate understands how spatial data can reveal patterns and identify strategic opportunities. Experience with GIS software and applications, including but not limited to the full ESRI suite of tools, is essential. This position will contribute to building strong, spatially informed insights that help both internal teams and external customers make smarter, more impactful decisions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Support GIS-based research and spatial analysis to evaluate parks, playgrounds, and community environments.
2. Collect, curate, and manage spatial and non-spatial datasets from multiple public and proprietary sources to develop data-driven insights and stories for internal and agency partners.
3. Conduct data processing and spatial data management, such as data cleaning, quality control, and updating and manipulating data pipelines.
4. Develop and maintain, thematic maps, dashboards, and other visualizations that illuminate patterns in community health, access, and vitality.
5. Contribute to the creation of prospective agency and existing customer reports and interactive GIS deliverables that communicate complex data through clear, narrative-driven visualizations.
6. Assist with additional research, analysis, and other tasks as needed to support ongoing projects and partnerships.

Competencies

• Analytical Decision-Making
• Communication
• Learning & Development
• Planning & Organizing
• Professionalism & Integrity

Education and/or Experience

• Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, I/O, GIS, Parks & Recreation or Data Analytics or other related field. May have recently graduated with a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• GIS experience required (2 years preferred at the college level)

Travel

• No travel required

Computer Skills

• Demonstrated proficiency with MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, PowerBI and ArcGIS Online

PlayCore and its family of brands considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.