Research Analyst

Job Goal

To advance the college’s mission, vision, principles, values and strategic initiatives through informed continuous improvement decisions.

General Job Summary

The Research Analyst conducts a broad range of activities to support data-informed decision making and evidence-based practices across stakeholder groups and subject matter experts to advance the institution's strategic plan and initiatives. They analyze and summarize data from primary and secondary sources, selects appropriate qualitative and quantitative methodologies, prepares reports, and shares findings orally, in writing, and via graphic representation to diverse audiences.

The typical work schedule for this position will be Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

This position does not provide employment based sponsorship.

Universal Core Competencies

• Advocate for Continual Improvement- empowering each other to identify opportunities for excellence.
• Collaborate with Mutual Accountability- working together with a willingness to take ownership and account for our actions.
• Champion Service- anticipating needs and create a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive environment.
• Perseverance- commitment to excellence even in the face of adversity or delay in achieving success.
• Lead- regardless of title, through positive influence.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research, evaluation, and assessment;
• Perform descriptive and inferential statistical analyses;
• Prepare visual and narrative representations of information;
• Present information to diverse audiences;
• Train others related to data literacy,
• Assess validity, accuracy, and reliability of internal and external data;
• Conduct literature reviews and environmental scans of education, economic, and workforce development trends and their impact upon the college;
• Maintain confidentiality at all times; and
• Perform other related work duties as assigned.

Performance Expectations

• Welcome, value, and nurture people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, as well as support and promote a team environment that accepts differences;
• Represent the college in a positive manner with all students and stakeholders, providing service in a courteous, prompt, and efficient manner;
• Use active listening and learning skills to effectively discern client needs;
• Understand and express concepts clearly and effectively in oral, written, and graphic forms;
• Apply logic models, outcome/competency-based practices, and computer/statistical logic;
• Demonstrate strong, deliberative attention to project management deadlines and detail; and
• Participate in meetings and projects in an environment that values collaboration, creativity, and innovation.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential job duties/responsibilities and performance expectations of the job, which should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Activities With/Without Reasonable Accommodation

Position involves working in an office setting. Occasional (10-33%) standing, pushing, pulling and grasping. Frequent (34-66%) reaching and viewing a computer and other types of close visual work. Constant (67-100%) sitting, walking, repetitive motion, talking and hearing.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., business analytics, education, psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, statistics)
• Graduate level courses in statistics
• Experience with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies
• Experience with primary and secondary data collection and analysis
• Proficient in Microsoft 365, such as Excel, Outlook, and Word
• Proficient in SQL
• Demonstrated ability to produce research writing and reports

Preferred Qualifications, Licenses, Certifications, Or Registrations

• Experience with statistical analysis, measurement, evaluation in education
• Experience using AI tools responsibly to support research analysis, with attention to data validity and methodological integrity
• Proficiency with Tableau, Power BI and related software
• Experience with predictive analytics
• Proficient with Microsoft SharePoint
• Conceptual knowledge of data architecture

Eeo/Aa Statement

It is the policy of Kirkwood Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, and actual or potential family, parental or marital status. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact the Vice President, Human Resources and Institutional Effectiveness (employees) or the Vice President of Student Services (students), 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404,

Why Kirkwood

Kirkwood Community College prides itself on fostering a diverse workforce and values unique perspectives throughout its campus community. The college is a convenient, innovative, visionary educational leader striving to remain affordable and accessible. With more than 140 majors and programs, Kirkwood boasts 16,000 annual college-credit students while maintaining one of the lowest tuitions in the state. All degree-seeking students are eligible for federal financial aid and the college offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year to students from all walks of life.

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

Kirkwood offers a wide range of employee benefits. Read more about them

01

Do you have a master’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., business analytics, education, psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, statistics)?

• Yes
• No

02

Have you had graduate level courses in statistics?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you have experience with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and experience with primary and secondary data collection and analysis?

• Yes
• No

04

Are you proficient in Microsoft 365, such as Excel, Outlook, and Word and proficient in SQL?

• Yes
• No

Required Question