Senior Research Analyst

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

The Senior Research Analyst coordinates the collection, composition, and study of data to provide an evidence base for reports, documents, and projections for use by district management staff in the determinations related to budget, staffing, facilities, and programs. The Senior Research Analyst utilizes significant technical computer expertise together with advanced knowledge of research methodologies to address information and knowledge gaps through the design, planning, and operation of multiple projects. The work requires a significant degree of independence and judgement and involves work of a highly specialized nature.

Duties include coordinating data production, resolving problems of significant complexity to do with the selection, organization, and inclusion of data to be used in reports, development of statistical procedures and scripts to serve the needs of a particular analysis, and further suggestions for secondary analysis that will aid in the development of meaningful information. Duties also include providing advice to school and district staff and the generation, production, and presentation of reports including explanatory descriptions of methodologies used.

The Senior Research Analyst reports to Management.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Develops research designs and analysis plans to support evidence collection efforts.

Provides analytical and interpretive advice for senior management and other groups.

Evaluates evidence from other sources for new directions and insights to support evidence collection efforts.

Identifies other kinds of secondary data analysis that will be of value.

Coordinates the development of data collection efforts, focus groups, online and paper surveys, polls.

Develops and designs survey items, response scales, focus group questions.

Ensures compliance with accepted research and statistical methodologies.

Manages, designs and carries out research and data collection processes.

Coordinates and performs the analysis and processing of complex data sets.

Produces charts, tables, and graphs to highlight trends.

Participates in the writing and development of reports that are easily understood by a variety of end users.

Presents clear and concise results of research projects and analysis to groups.

Coordinates and trains junior staff on specific job tasks.

Responds directly to requests from school and district staff for data analyses and summaries and queries.

Performs related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Advanced knowledge of software relevant to the work (SPSS and/or SAS software, content analysis software, and survey software).

Superior knowledge of MS Office.

Superior Internet research skills.

Advanced knowledge of research and statistical methodologies, including limitations of data.

Ability to liaise with Management on research design, data management, and statistical issues.

Advanced ability to analyse and interpret numerous statistical and other data.

Advanced ability to work with complex data sets from various sources and in a variety of formats.

Demonstrated ability to lead/coordinate research projects with internal and external groups.

Demonstrated ability to develop and write clear, accurate reports.

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.

Ability to work under time constraints and to meet deadlines.

Ability to prepare and deliver comprehensive presentations to a broad audience.

Skill in working with office equipment and scanners.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, education, or related field from an institution recognized by the District.

Five years' experience in a related work environment, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

LICENCES, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATIONS

None