Research Analyst I - Data Collection and Research

Utah-Valley-University; Orem (UT); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Utah Valley University is seeking a curious and collaborative Research Analyst to join the Data Collection and Research team. You will design surveys, facilitate focus groups, build dashboards, and present findings to campus leaders to inform university decisions.

You will handle data collection, analysis, and reporting, translating quantitative and qualitative results into actionable insights that support data-informed decision making across the institution.

Qualifications

• Experience in survey design and implementation, including focus groups.
• Ability to translate research findings into actionable insights for stakeholders.
• Familiarity with higher education data and FERPA/HIPAA considerations.

Responsibilities

• Design, coordinate, and administer surveys and focus groups.
• Lead research projects from planning through analysis and reporting.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Data visualization

Attention to detail

Project management

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Associate's degree

Master's degree enrollment

Tools

SPSS

Power BI

Qualtrics

Excel

Access

Job description

Utah Valley University is seeking a curious, analytical, and collaborative Research Analyst to join the Data Collection and Research team. In this role, you'll conduct meaningful research that directly informs university decisions, improves student and employee experiences, and supports institutional effectiveness. From designing surveys and facilitating focus groups to building dashboards and presenting findings to campus leaders, you'll have the opportunity to lead projects from idea to impact.

If you're passionate about turning data into actionable insights and enjoy working with people as much as numbers, we'd love to hear from you.

Survey Research, Focus Groups, and Data Collection: Design, coordinate, and administer surveys, focus groups, and other research activities. Collaborate with campus partners to identify research objectives, develop appropriate methodologies, and collect high-quality data from students and employees. Manage research projects from planning and implementation through analysis and reporting.

Data Analysis, Reporting, and Dashboard Development: Analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative findings. Translate results into reports, executive summaries, presentations, dashboards, and data visualizations. Communicate research findings to university leaders and stakeholders, and provide insights that support data-informed decision-making.

Research Consultation and Project Support: Collaborate with other DCR staff as well as partners across campus to develop research plans, evaluate programs and initiatives, and address emerging information needs. Provide guidance on survey design, data collection strategies, and interpretation of results. Performs other duties as required.

Graduation from an accredited institution with an Associate's degree and three years of related field experience; OR a Bachelor's degree and one year of related field experience; OR enrollment in an appropriate Master's degree program totaling five years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited institution with a Master's degree and at least one year's research experience, ORa Bachelor's degree and three years' experience. Related degrees might include: Administration (Educational, Public, or Business), Behavioral Science, Research/Evaluation, Information Systems, etc.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of research/assessment design in social science, including questionnaire design, survey methodology, and qualitative methods (interview/focus groups).
• Knowledge and use of computer systems and software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access; as well as SPSS, Power BI, and Qualtrics, or similar tools. Knowledge of championing data-informed decision making, practice, and professional development. Knowledge of privacy and compliance (including FERPA, HIPPA, etc.).

Skills

• Skills in verbal and written communication, both in formal and informal contexts.
• Skills in the effective visualization of data. Skills in accuracy, attention to detail, and clarity.

Abilities

• Ability to present self as professional, competent, and cordial. Ability to support a project from inception through the design, implementation and extraction/collection of data, to the creation of the final report, summaries, and presentation(s).
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to collaborate within the department and with data stewards and custodians.
• Ability to communicate statistical principles to lay audiences. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of higher education and institutional research, including: current issues, trends, research, and best practices.
• Ability to contribute to professional associates and best practices. Ability to communicate complex research designs and findings in simple, compelling, and actionable terms to decision-makers using business intelligence principles.
• Ability to work with a team as well as individually.