Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner seeks to hire a research associate/data analyst II (data analyst) who will enhance the analytical capacity of its Rhode Island Longitudinal Data System Center (RILDS). In collaboration with policymakers and researchers, the data analyst explores, cleans, analyzes, and visualizes linked, inter-agency, longitudinal data. This position juggles multiple projects, covering policy areas such as child welfare, education, public health, and workforce development to support RILDS’ purpose of informing policy, facilitating research, and improving the lives of Rhode Islanders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Data analysis & visualization: Use programming and quantitative analysis skills to query, explore, clean, and analyze linked, inter-agency, longitudinal data. Acquire data from multiple sources, including linking datasets and databases. Produce reports and visualizations (e.g., dashboards, data stories, maps, infographics) that extract insights and interpret findings for multiple audiences.

• Operational leadership: Collaborate with colleagues, consultants, and external partners on project development and execution. Develop familiarity with RILDS datasets and systems. Learn and follow RILDS policies and processes, including for confidentiality, privacy, and security of data. Contribute to RILDS documentation efforts. Collaborate with the RILDS Center engineering team on prioritizing engineering requests.

• Communications: Cultivate positive relationships with stakeholders, including Rhode Island state agencies, Rhode Island municipal governments, national advocacy organizations, community foundations, and research institutions. Participate in meetings with partners. Contribute to communications materials, including website and social media.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of four years of professional experience analyzing data and/or public policy, producing data visualizations, and/or conducting evaluation and research projects.
Or
Master’s degree and a minimum of two years of professional experience analyzing data and/or public policy, producing data visualizations, and/or conducting evaluation and research projects.

• Demonstrated experience using programming/scripting languages, e.g., R and/or Python, for data analysis
• Demonstrated experience using business intelligence/reporting tools, e.g., PowerBI and/or Tableau, for data visualization
• Proven track record analyzing and aggregating large datasets
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated project management skills
• Ability to respond to changing priorities and ensure timely, accurate deliverables
• Ability to collaborate with diverse populations

Preferred

• Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as public policy, sociology, political science, economics, statistics, etc.
• Demonstrated experience working with integrated datasets or data systems
• Demonstrated knowledge and subject matter expertise in education and workforce development policy
• Demonstrated experience using geographic information systems, e.g., ArcGIS, for geospatial analysis and mapping

This is a non-union, non-classified, full-time position with a pay grade of 12. The data analyst reports to the director, RILDS. To apply, submit a resume and cover letter by December 10, 2024. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.