Job SummaryThe University of North Georgia is accepting applications for a Data Scientist. The Data Scientist supports the University of North Georgia's strategic priorities by applying advanced statistical analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning, and quantitative research to trusted enterprise data. Working within the UNG NEST, the position develops analytical models and predictive insights that improve strategic decision-making, operational excellence, institutional effectiveness, and student success. The Data Scientist collaborates across the university to solve complex analytical challenges while coordinating and mentoring Data Science interns participating in the Analytics & Innovation Incubator.
Responsibilities - Advanced Analytics & Predictive Modeling - Develops statistical, predictive, and machine learning models that support enrollment management, student success, retention, graduation, workforce planning, finance, institutional effectiveness, and other strategic initiatives
- Forecasting & Quantitative Research - Designs and conducts forecasting studies, scenario analyses, and quantitative research using advanced analytical techniques such as regression, classification, clustering, survival analysis, time-series forecasting, optimization, and related methodologies to support strategic planning and executive decision-making.
- Exploratory Data Analysis & Methodology - Conducts exploratory data analysis to identify patterns, trends, anomalies, and opportunities across institutional data while developing, validating, documenting, and refining analytical methodologies, model assumptions, and research findings to ensure transparency and reproducibility.
- Institutional Collaboration & Consulting - Collaborates with university leadership, functional offices, Institutional Research, Information Technology, faculty collaborators, and members of Strategic Impact & Engagement to identify analytical opportunities, translate business questions into quantitative solutions, and communicate findings through reports, presentations, and executive briefings.
- Analytics & Innovation Incubator Leadership - Coordinates and mentors undergraduate and graduate Data Science interns participating in the Analytics & Innovation Incubator by assigning projects, reviewing analytical work, providing technical guidance, and fostering professional development.
- Innovation & Continuous Improvement - Researches, evaluates, and applies statistical methodologies, machine learning approaches, and artificial intelligence capabilities to strengthen the university's analytical capacity while supporting the continued evolution of the UNG NEST.
- Professional Development & Other Duties - Maintains current knowledge of developments in data science, higher education analytics, and institutional research through professional development activities and performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities- Advanced knowledge of statistical analysis, predictive modeling, supervised and unsupervised machine learning, and quantitative research methodologies.
- Proficiency using analytical programming languages such as Python or R and familiarity with SQL for data analysis.
- Strong understanding of forecasting, regression, classification, clustering, optimization, survival analysis, and related analytical techniques.
- Strong analytical reasoning, critical thinking, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to communicate complex analytical findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences through reports, presentations, and data visualizations.
- Ability to manage multiple analytical projects while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
- Ability to mentor student researchers and foster professional development within the Analytics & Innovation Incubator.
Required Qualifications - Master's degree from an accredited institution in Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Analytics, or a closely related quantitative discipline
- Minimum 2 years experience applying statistical analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning, and quantitative research techniques within higher education, government, healthcare, business, or a comparable analytical environment.
- Experience developing analytical models that support strategic decision-making using large, complex datasets.
- Experience using analytical programming languages such as Python or R and SQL for data analysis.
Preferred Qualifications - Preferred: Doctoral degree in a related quantitative discipline.
- Preferred Qualifications Experience in higher education analytics or institutional research. Experience supporting enrollment management, student success, retention, graduation, finance, workforce planning, or institutional effectiveness initiatives. Experience with Microsoft SQL Server, Power BI, or similar enterprise analytics platforms. Experience mentoring interns, graduate assistants, or junior analysts. Experience applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to solve complex organizational problems. Knowledge of FERPA, data governance principles, and ethical use of institutional data.
Required Documents to Attach - Resume
- Cover Letter
- Unofficial Transcripts
- Contact Information for Three Professional References
Other Information - This is not a supervisory position.
- This position does not have any financial responsibilities.
- This position will not be required to drive.
- This role is considered a position of trust.
- This position does not require a purchasing card (P-Card).
- This position will not travel
- This position does not require security clearance.
Please note: the University of North Georgia career board updates daily, positions are subject to be removed without prior notice or before the posting expires. Background Check - Position of Trust + Education
