Hybrid: Entry-Level Institutional Research Data Specialist

Northeastern Illinois University; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Northeastern Illinois University invites applications for an entry-level position in the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. You will assist with routine data collection, reporting, survey administration, and data requests under supervision, buildingSQL/Cognos and Excel skills in a collaborative, hybrid setting.

The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to processes, and skill development rather than leading major research projects.

Qualifications

• Twenty-four (24) semester hours of college credit in computer science, mathematics or related field, incl. 12 hours in mathematical modeling/programming.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Basic quantitative and analytical skills.
• Interest in institutional research and higher education data.
• Familiarity with Excel or similar data tools.
• Exposure to SQL, survey software, Tableau, Cognos, Workday, or other reporting tools.
• Ability to follow established procedures and document work accurately.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle and protect confidential information.
• Willingness to learn and develop new technical skills through training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Data Requests and Reporting Support: Retrieve, organize, validate, and summarize institutional data using established procedures.
• Survey Administration Support: Set up, distribute, monitor, and report on surveys (NSSE, alumni surveys, etc.).
• Recurring and External Reporting: Prepare and quality-review semester and annual reports.
• Data Quality and Documentation: Perform routine validation and document data sources and processes.
• Website and Information Support: Update IR&A website and published reports.
• Tools and Reporting Systems: Use SQL Developer, Cognos Analytics, and Workday; assist with Excel data tasks.
• Other Duties: Perform additional duties to support the office’s goals.

Skills

Strong attention to detail

Basic quantitative and analytical

Interest in institutional research

Excel familiarity

Exposure to SQL

Survey software proficiency

Tableau

Cognos Analytics

Workday reporting

Written and verbal communication

Confidential information handling

Willingness to learn

Education

24 semester hours in CS/Math related field incl. 12 credits in math modeling/programming

Tools

SQL Developer

Cognos Analytics

Workday

Excel

Tableau

Job description

Northeastern Illinois University invites applications for an entry-level position in the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. You will assist with routine data collection, reporting, survey administration, and data requests under supervision, buildingSQL/Cognos and Excel skills in a collaborative, hybrid setting.

The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to processes, and skill development rather than leading major research projects.