Institutional Research Data Analyst, UTC Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Institutional Research

The Institutional Research Data Analyst plays a crucial role in leveraging data to inform decision-making, enhance institutional effectiveness, and increase operational efficiency. The primary objective of this position is to provide actionable insights and recommendations to support academic program planning, student success, strategic planning, resource allocation, and continuous improvement across the institution. The position requires a high level of accuracy, extraordinary attention to detail, solid proofreading skills, the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines, and the ability to adhere to ethical and legal standards in institutional research.

Research & Insights
Design, implement, and contribute to projects using appropriate research methodologies and analytical techniques to identify trends, patterns, and correlations in key performance metrics (e.g. enrollment, retention, outcomes) and operational efficiencies (e.g. course section offerings, faculty workload). Interpret these findings and translate them into clear, actionable insights and recommendations for institutional leadership and other stakeholders.

Data Science & Predictive Analytics
Design, develop, train, and test predictive models to identify and prioritize student success outcomes for the College using a variety of data mining and advanced statistical analysis techniques. Conduct predictive modeling and forecasting to anticipate future enrollment trends and resource needs.

Reporting & Compliance
Prepare required institutional reports (e.g. IPEDS UT System, THEC, and other federal/state reports) accurately and on time. Ensure all compliance data submissions meet defined standards and deadlines. Respond to ad-hoc requests for data or analysis from campus stakeholders, providing accurate and official information in a timely manner. Document the process for completing reports.

Data Transparency & Education
Interpret data findings and present clear, actionable insights to key stakeholders including academic administrators, faculty members, and institutional leadership. Lead training to improve data literacy and promote data-informed decision practices throughout the institution.

Continuous Improvement
Stay informed on best practices in data analytics and higher education. Proactively seek to respond to institutional needs.

The ideal candidate will possess the following: 

• Knowledge of descriptive and inferential statistics and software (e.g., SPSS, R, SAS).
• Enthusiasm for problem solving; demonstrated ability to create effective solutions to complex tasks.
• Working understanding of key institutional business practices and reporting metrics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present data findings clearly and translate technical information for non-technical audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously while working collaboratively in a team environment. 
• Experience with administrative student information systems used in higher education (e.g. Banner, PeopleSoft) is beneficial. 
• Knowledge of data governance principles and data management best practices within large organizations is also advantageous.

Review of applications will begin March 31, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by this date will receive priority consideration. A cover letter and resume are required for consideration for this position. The cover letter should be included in the same document as your resume and should specifically address your interest in this position and highlight related skills and experience. Anticipated hiring salary is between $55,000 and $63,000, depending on experience. The Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Institutional Research will be unable to sponsor any employment visas for the position. 
 

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor degree in Psychology, Data Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Administration or relevant field; At least 2 years of experience in data analysis, reporting, or data management, ideally working with complex data systems or large datasets. Experience working directly in Institutional Research/Institutional Effectiveness, Assessment, and/or Data Analytics/Business Intelligence offices.

Preferred Qualifications: Master degree in Analytics, Education, Psychology, Business or relevant field; Prior experience working in a higher education Institutional Research office or similar environment is highly desirable; Familiarity with standard higher-education reporting and survey requirements (such as IPEDS reporting, accreditation data submissions, or National Student Clearinghouse reports). This includes understanding definitions of common institutional metrics and ensuring consistency in reporting these figures.