Job DescriptionThis position serves as a senior data analyst in the Office of Institutional Research and Analysis and provides analytical, research, and reporting support for decision-makers and strategic initiatives. Under the general direction of the Director of Institutional Research, the position leads complex data requests and analytical projects, develops and applies appropriate research methodologies, and delivers accurate, timely, and actionable information to university stakeholders. The position also develops polished, accurate, and audience-appropriate reports and analytical briefs that translate complex data into clear and actionable findings for leadership. The role also conducts benchmarking and environmental scanning, maintains documentation and data standards, and advances efficient and reliable institutional research and reporting practices.
ResponsibilitiesManages complex data requests and analytical projects by serving as the lead analyst on ad hoc and recurring data requests for stakeholders. Consults with the requester to clarify scope, defining data needs, identifying appropriate methodologies and definitions, and establishing realistic timelines and deliverables. Applies analytical expertise to synthesize findings and identify meaningful trends for decision support.
Performs advanced data extraction, validation, and analysis using the student information system by writing, modifying, and optimizing complex SQL queries and scripts to retrieve data. Integrates data from multiple sources to support comparative analysis. Validates data against numbers from official data sources. Develops efficient and repeatable approaches for data extraction, transformation, and reporting.
Conducts research, benchmarking, and environmental scanning on higher education trends and best practices. Uses internal and external data sources to conduct peer and aspirational benchmarking. Summarizes research findings and comparative analysis into clear narratives and recommendations that help to inform leadership.
Develops polished, accurate, and audience-appropriate reports and analytical briefs for leadership and stakeholders. Translates complex data into clear, concise, and actionable information. Communicates key findings, trends, and implications into reports to support informed decision making.
Supports documentation, standardization, and process improvement. Develops and maintains clear documentation for data definitions, methodologies, query logic, reporting processes and workflows. Promotes standardization in practices and recurring reports while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, consistency, and transparency in institutional research processes.
QualificationsSuccessful candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in higher education, research, business analytics, statistics, computer science or related field and five years of experience creating and analyzing large, complex datasets and interpreting research findings.
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities required
- Advanced knowledge of institutional research principles, analytical methods, and the use of data to support decision-making in higher education.
- Advanced skill in SQL, including script writing, joins, queries, data validation, and query optimization.
- Ability to manage data requests from intake through delivery, including requirement gathering, analysis design, validation, interpretation, and communication of results.
- Strong knowledge of data quality practices, documentation standards, and process standardization.
- Ability to conduct research and benchmarking on higher education trends, peer institutions, and best practices.
- Strong project management and organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize work, manage multiple deadlines, and create realistic timeline estimates.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex data into clear, concise, audience-appropriate information.
- Strong data literacy and analytical reasoning skills, including the ability to identify patterns, discrepancies, and implications in complex datasets.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage ambiguity in a dynamic environment;
- High degree of accuracy, attention to detail, and commitment to data integrity and confidentiality.
Preferred education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
- Master's degree
- Seven to ten years of experience in an Institutional Research office.
- Experience conducting research or data analysis, preferably in an institutional research or similar higher educational setting.
- Ability to effectively deal with ambiguity and changing project requirements.
- Ability to successfully participate and collaborate with others and be responsive in working relationships
Application Process For full consideration, applications should be accompanied by a letter of interest, a resume, and three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately.
Benefits and CompensationCompensation for the position is budged for
$85,000 to $90,000.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits and much more. Additionally, Tennessee residents do not pay a state income tax. For more information on the University of Tennessee's benefits, visit https://hr.tennessee.edu/benefits/
