Asset Management Co-Op

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA); Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is seeking a data analytics co-op in the Asset Management Department to support asset lifecycle management and condition monitoring. You will collaborate with Asset Information Analysts to develop models and perform trend analyses using inspection data from rail, facilities, and signaling assets.

This paid internship requires availability for 6 months (January–June) and entails 2–3 days onsite each week, with opportunities to contribute to

Qualifications

• Enrollment in an accredited undergraduate degree program for the duration of the internship.
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills with ability to work independently.
• Ability to gather, organize, and interpret data from multiple sources.
• Proficiency in English communication, written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Asset Data Oversight: develop models and analytics to monitor asset performance using inspection data.
• Data Accuracy & Trend Analysis: sample data to ensure accuracy and run trend analyses.
• Process Integrity: follow inspections and develop new workflows aligned with standards.
• Infrastructure Condition Assessment: assist field inspections and desktop reviews of assets.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: work with multiple disciplines to support asset management strategy.
• Safety & Risk Analysis: analyze data to verify reduction of safety incidents.
• Travel within MBTA system to gather information and data.
• Organize data using Microsoft Office, CAD, ERP systems.
• Participate in team meetings and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Data modeling

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Undergraduate degree in CS / Data Analytics / Asset Management

Tools

CAD

Excel

Tableau

Power BI

Maximo

Infor

Job description

Asset Management Department plays a critical role in supporting both the MBTA’s capital and operational needs. It encompasses four primary disciplines: Electrical, Maintenance of Way (MOW), Facilities, and Signals.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to data-driven decision-making that ensures the safety, reliability, and longevity of the MBTA’s extensive infrastructure. The intern / co-op will work closely with Asset Information Managers, Analysts, and Coordinators to support various aspects of asset lifecycle management, condition monitoring, and process improvement initiatives.

We are looking to hire one co-op, who will work at least 2 - 3 days onsite (40 hours per week) for at least six months (January – June).

• Asset Data Oversight:Collaborate with Asset Information Analysts to develop mathematical models and analytics to monitor asset performance using condition inspection data collected by subject matter experts from fields such as rail, transit, engineering, and maintenance.
• Data Accuracy & Trend Analysis, Visualization: Sample asset data to ensure accuracy and reliability. Conduct trend analyses to identify potential defects and report findings for further action.
• Process Integrity:Follow-up on inspections and process reviews to ensure improvements align with the MBTA Asset Management Program's standards. Develop new workflows based on field research, stakeholder interviews, and meetings.
• Infrastructure Condition Assessment & Desktop Analytics:Assist with field inspections and desktop reviews of infrastructure and transit assets. Analyze inspection findings, condition ratings, photographs, maintenance records, and historical data to identify trends, potential deficiencies, and changes in asset condition, and support recommendations for further assessment or corrective action.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:Work across various disciplines to support a unified asset management strategy that integrates engineering, maintenance, and safety processes.
• Safety & Risk Analysis:Collect and analyze data to statistically verify the reduction of safety incidents. Perform root cause analysis of asset defects to enhance system safety and performance.
• Conduct trend analysis to identify potential asset defects and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with engineers and subject matter experts in condition assessments of rail, facilities, and transit assets.
• Develop and utilize mathematical models to evaluate asset performance, life-cycle costs, and risk mitigation.
• Travel the MBTA system gathering information and data on equipment related systems.
• Organize data as necessary for ease of use and navigation using programs such as Microsoft Office Suite, CAD software, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) etc.
• Participate in team / staff meetings, organizational events, fieldwork, project teams, or other duties as assigned.
• Provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experience.
• Additional responsibilities may focus on one or more specific departments or locations (refer to department-specific addendums or hiring manager guidance).
• Perform all other duties and projects assigned.

* The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Currently enrolled and maintaining active status for the entire duration of employment in an accredited undergraduate / Bachelor’s degree program in computer science, asset management, data analytics, systems engineering, or general engineering (i.e. mechanical, electrical, industrial, facilities or civil / structural, etc.).
• Above average ability to take limited instructions and work independently.
• Above average ability to gather and organize information.
• Above average ability to investigate normal or abnormal situations for diagnosis as needed.
• Above average ability to navigate and ride the MBTA system.
• Above average knowledge of relevant technical tools (e.g. CAD).
• Above average proficiency with standard office software (e.g. Microsoft office, Adobe Acrobat, etc.).
• Above average ability to communicate effectively in English, both in written and oral forms.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and detail oriented.
• Demonstrated interest in public transportation, urban planning, engineering, public policy, or public service.
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within diverse, fast-paced environments.
• Ability to commute independently to assigned work locations within the Greater Boston metro area, as required by the role.
• Authorized to work in the United States (international students in CPT, STEM, or OPT programs through a university are eligible to apply). The MBTA does not provide visa sponsorship, such as H1-B status.

* The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and complexity of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an interest in data modeling and statistical analysis.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI), and familiarity with asset management software (e.g., Maximo, Infor).
• A passion for improving public transportation infrastructure and contributing to asset safety and performance initiatives