Graduate Analyst - Paid Intern | Fall 2026

About the Role Karp Strategies is actively hiring a part-time Graduate Analyst to join our team for Fall 2026. This is a hands-on, client-integrated role for a graduate student who is excited about urban strategy and consulting, and ready to contribute from day one. Graduate Analysts play a meaningful role across client and internal projects, with work spanning research, writing, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and the creation of compelling client-facing materials. You won't be sitting on the sidelines: you'll be a real part of the team, engaged across many aspects of the consulting process. This role is a strong fit if you are excited about working at the intersection of economic development, urban planning, and community engagement; thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment; are comfortable with ambiguity and learning as you go; and share our commitment to growing stronger communities and thriving economies. We are looking for candidates who can commit 20–25 hours per week. We will prioritize candidates available for both fall and spring semesters, with the possibility to extend through the summer. Dependent on firm needs, there is potential for Graduate Analysts to transition to a full-time Analyst role upon graduation. Key Responsibilities Core Areas of Work Research & Writing Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to support client projects across the firm's portfolio. This includes desk research, policy analysis, literature reviews, and synthesizing complex information into clear, accessible narratives for a range of audiences. Strong writing is central to this role, from internal memos to polished client deliverables. Data Analysis Support quantitative and qualitative data analysis across a range of project types, with a particular focus on market analysis, socioeconomic and labor market research, and mapping and data visualization. Translate data into meaningful findings and recommendations that inform client strategy and decision-making. Stakeholder Engagement Support outreach and engagement activities including focus groups, interviews, community briefings, and facilitated meetings. Help design engagement materials and facilitation guides, manage related logistics, and synthesize findings into actionable insights. Experience with creative engagement methodologies is a plus. Client Materials & Design Create compelling, polished client-facing materials including presentations, reports, infographics, and decks that translate technical findings into accessible formats. You should be comfortable working in PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Adobe Suite, and have a strong sense of what good design looks like. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise What You Bring Currently enrolled in a graduate program in urban planning, public policy, economics, or a related field 1–3 years of demonstrated experience in research, writing, and/or data analysis Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write clearly for diverse audiences Comfort with data analysis and visualization; experience with mapping tools, Excel, or similar platforms a plus Proficiency in PowerPoint, Google Suite, and Adobe Suite Experience in community economic development, workforce development, placemaking, or stakeholder engagement preferred Entrepreneurial mindset: proactive, curious, and comfortable contributing in a maturing startup environment Multilingual skills are highly valued given our work with diverse communities Genuine commitment to equity, inclusion, and the communities we serve We don't expect candidates to bring all of these skills; we're genuinely excited to learn what you'd contribute to the team and our work. To Apply Please submit a resume, cover letter, and one work sample that demonstrates your skills against the areas outlined above, all in PDF format.