Job Title: Institutional Research Data Analyst
Salary Range: U24
Department: Office of Institutional Research
Location: 111 W. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08608
Organizational Background:
Founded in 1972 to break down barriers to degree completion, Thomas Edison State University (TESU) proudly serves a diverse body of adult students with innovative and professionally relevant academic programming, predominantly delivered online. Our team of high-energy, student-focused professionals is welcoming new members ready to make their mark in education and help change the lives of thousands of adult students across New Jersey and around the world.
Summary:
TESU is seeking an experienced Institutional Research Data Analyst to join our Office of Institutional Research. This role is pivotal in providing data, analysis, and research that support strategic and operational decision-making. The Analyst will work closely with the Director of Institutional Research and Planning, advising senior leadership as they assess the University's health and trajectory. The position also involves supporting student success initiatives and conducting predictive modeling related to student retention and success.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research and Data Analysis:
- Design, implement, and report on extensive research and statistical analyses on key university issues (e.g., enrollment forecasting, student recruitment, persistence and graduation rates).
- Leverage statistical techniques like data mining and predictive analytics to identify trends, equity gaps, and barriers to student success.
- Respond to research questions and data requests from internal and external stakeholders.
- Utilize external databases (e.g., National Student Clearinghouse, IPEDS) for student-related data and peer comparisons.
- Reporting:
- Prepare user-friendly data visualizations for presentations, reports, and interactive dashboards (Power BI preferred).
- Produce information for external compliance surveys and reports (federal, regional, state).
- Assist in developing and implementing a University Fact Book.
- Data Governance and Integrity:
- Help develop and maintain a data glossary and standard operating procedures.
- Maintain office databases and data files using spreadsheets and statistical databases (e.g., Excel, Access, SPSS).
- Identify and resolve data integrity issues, ensuring accuracy through proofreading and editing.
- Maintain confidentiality of student information and secure data files.
- Other Responsibilities:
- Assist the Director in producing data reports and developing presentations for various audiences.
- Coordinate activities with other university staff and organizations.
- Participate in university-wide committees, workshops, and activities.
Qualifications:
- Education:
- Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred in a field emphasizing data analysis, research, or assessment (e.g., social sciences, data analytics, statistics).
- Experience:
- At least 2 years of professional experience in higher education related to institutional research, data analysis, or student success.
- Knowledge of issues affecting adult students in higher education, including motivation, engagement, and persistence.
- A master's degree may substitute for one year of required experience.
- Skills:
- Proficient in statistical analysis, report writing, research design, and data visualization tools (Power BI preferred).
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite and statistical software applications (e.g., SPSS).
- Ability to extract, edit, compile, and evaluate data; knowledge of SQL is a plus.
- Strong analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Preferred Candidate:
- 3+ years of institutional research experience.
- Experience with career outcome tools, academic program reviews, accreditation, and compliance reporting.
- Strong knowledge of factors predicting adult college students' success.
Work Hours:
- Full-time, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
- TESU offers flexible hybrid-work schedules based on operational needs.
How to Apply:
Resumes and applications for this position will only be accepted online through ADP Workforce Now:
All applicants should attach a cover letter describing:
- The type of institutional research office they've worked in.
- Experience with institutional research projects and student success research.
- How past experiences relate to the requirements of the Institutional Research Data Analyst position.
- Experience working with or researching adult/nontraditional college students.
Thomas Edison State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
