Data Collector

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 27,552 - 35,817; Part time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota is hiring part-time data collectors for a nationwide study involving preschool children. Responsibilities include data collection in educational settings and documentation of assessment scores.

This role is based in Minneapolis/St. Paul and offers a pay range of $20 - $26 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. Candidates should have experience working with children and the ability to communicate effectively.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent or two years of work experience.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
• Reliable transportation for travel to various sites.

Responsibilities

• Travel to school and childcare sites to collect assessment data.
• Document assessment scores and transfer data each session.
• Collaborate effectively with diverse backgrounds and communities.

Skills

Experience working with preschool and/or elementary-age children

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong attention to detail

Self-directed initiative

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

About the Job

IGDI Lab, housed within the Department of Educational Psychology in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota, is recruiting part‑time data collectors for a nationwide study. The role involves collecting assessment data from preschool children in multi‑tiered system of support settings. Applicants will be trained in the I‑SPEAK assessment, use iPads to administer the tests, and record data in a tracking spreadsheet. The position is based in‑person in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN and Atlanta, GA, with potential openings in other states, and is expected to run through August 2026.

Hours and Schedule

Data collection will primarily take place during daytime hours (short shifts between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday). Occasional evening or weekend shifts may occur. The role is temporary, limited to 67 work days per calendar year, and casual, allowing up to 14 hours per week. No weekly hour minimum is guaranteed.

Job Responsibilities

• Travel to school and childcare sites and collect assessment data with preschool children.
• Document all assessment scores.
• Transfer data each session by recording progress in a tracking spreadsheet.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, or two years of work experience.
• Experience working with preschool and/or elementary‑age children.
• Ability to communicate with supervisors and team members via email, phone, and videoconference.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and communities.
• Reliable transportation for travel to school and childcare sites.
• Availability for short shifts during the project’s required hours (generally 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., M‑F).

Preferred Qualifications

• Lived experiences that align with project goals.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self‑directed initiative and pro‑activity.
• Experience in classroom settings or working with children one‑on‑one.
• Experience with data collection and excellent data entry skills.
• Fluency in Spanish, both written and verbal.

Compensation

Pay Range: $20 - $26 per hour; dependent on education, qualifications, and experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor‑Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.

Benefits

Employees in this position are paid an hourly rate and are not eligible for retirement plans, health insurance, vacation, sick leave, or the Regents Scholarship.

EEO Statement

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in the employment experience. The University is committed to equal access and opportunity in employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The applicant is presumed eligible to work. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists.