Research Data Analyst

University of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 43,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package including medical and

Transit benefits

Professional development

Job summary

The University of Minnesota's Center for Transportation Studies seeks a Research Data Analyst to support the Accessibility Observatory (AO) program. You will perform analysis, manage data, and develop tools for sharing datasets and maps related to destination access and transportation planning.

Ideal candidates have a strong background in geospatial analysis, data science, and clear communication for diverse audiences, with collaborative experience in research settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a major in Geography, Engineering, Urban Planning, Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Biology, Ecology, or related field plus two years experience.
• Total six years of combined education and relevant experience acceptable.
• Master's degree preferred with two years of related transportation/land use research experience.

Responsibilities

• Deliver data analysis and evaluation projects for the AO program using spatial data; develop software/tools for analysis of geospatial data.
• Create and share static and interactive visual content; develop tutorials and documentation for tool use.
• Present complex information clearly to diverse audiences including planners, policymakers, and researchers.
• Contribute to AO administration and project management; assist with strategic planning and program development.
• Collaborate with AO staff and sponsors to communicate results and support business development.

Skills

Data analytics

Communication skills

Geospatial analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geography, Engineering, Urban Planning, Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Biology, Ecology, or related field

Master's degree (preferred) in a related field

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

SQL databases

Python

R

Job description

Job Details

Job ID: 375989

Location: Twin Cities

Job Family: Research

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Job Code: 8352DA

Employee Class: Civil Service

About the Job

CENTER FOR TRANSPORTATION STUDIES

RESEARCH DATA ANALYST

University Classification Name: Researcher Professional 2 - Data Analytics

University Classification Job Code: 8352DA

The Accessibility Observatory or AO (https://access.umn.edu), a CTS research program, is a leading national resource for the research and application of access to destinations data to transportation system planning and evaluation. This position will support the Observatory's National Access Evaluation project as well as other research projects related to destination access, transportation planning, and land use planning.

Purpose of Position: The Research Data Analyst will assist with the analysis, data sharing, communication, and data management of the Center's AO program. This includes delivering analysis and evaluation projects; communicating research results; creating and supporting data tools for sponsors and the public; supporting business development activities; and assisting with program management and administration. Position will include tasks from a mix of key functions as described below.

Relationships: Research Data Analyst will report to the director of the Accessibility Observatory. Two other full-time research staff and one to three graduate research assistants make up the AO staff.

Primary Responsibilities

• 40% Data Analysis: Deliver analysis and evaluation projects for the AO program by processing and analyzing existing spatially explicit data on access to destinations; creating, improving, and using software and scripting tools for analysis of geospatial data; and matching end product summaries and graphics to question of interest around the intersection of transportation and land use. Respond to research inquiries and data requests. Maintain records of research data and results.
• 30% Tools for Spatial Data Communication: Apply data visualization best practices to translate complex transportation research concepts and findings into usable, accessible static and interactive digital content for diverse audiences. Create digital tools to share large datasets and derived maps and statistics, with focus on external partner use cases. Explore and test alternative software for best match with data structure, type, and user needs. Iteratively develop tools with internal and external stakeholders. Create supporting documentation and example tutorials of tool use.
• 15% Communication & Outreach: Present and communicate complex information in a clear, accessible way to various audiences, including transportation agency planners and engineers, policymakers, other researchers, students, and the public. Transfer research results into practice by presenting stories of analysis at conferences and agency meetings. Provide support to business development activities that attract funding for access-related research by identifying funding opportunities; facilitating connections with potential research partners; and communicating and promoting AO expertise.
• 10% Administration & Project Management: Contribute as a team member in the administration and management of AO projects and initiatives. Participate in the strategic planning process and lead and/or participate in the delivery of tactics. Utilize project and software management tools to assist the AO director and Lead Researcher in program and process development, project planning and progress tracking, staffing strategies and assignments, and other group management functions as needed.
• 5% Other duties at CTS: Contribute as a team member in the administration of CTS and AO programs. Assist in the design and implementation of Center-wide initiatives and special projects as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a major in Geography, Engineering, Urban Planning, Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Biology, Ecology, or related field, plus two years of experience; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience to total 6 years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field and two years of experience delivering or supporting transportation and land use research projects. Project management and software development version control (e.g. Git and GitHub) experience.
• Experience using data and geospatial analysis software such as: ArcGIS, QGIS, SQL databases, Python, R.
• Experience using cloud computing resources such as AWS or Azure.
• Proven ability to communicate complex issues in a concise and thoughtful manner.
• The successful candidate will also be resilient, curious, and nimble, and able to thrive in a research environment where thoughtfulness and attention to detail are valued.

About the Department

The Center for Transportation Studies (CTS) is a unique University of Minnesota center that conducts transportation research, education, and outreach programs in a broad number of areas. The Center currently operates with a total annual budget of over $22 million, and works with over 25 academic departments throughout the University. CTS consists of approximately 25 professional staff and 15-20 students who deliver the Center's multiple programs. The Center is funded primarily through sponsored funds from local and national sources, and maintaining long-term funding stability requires strong relationships with various funders and other transportation stakeholders.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $31.25/hr - $35.58/hr; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Time Appointment

Work Profile: This position can be designated as work profiles 1-4:

• Profile 1- Office/Lab Based: Time spent working remotely is occasional or inconsistent. Dedicated on campus work space to be provided.
• Profile 2-Regularly Remote: Time spent working remotely is consistently less than 50% time. Dedicated on campus work space to be provided.
• Profile 3- Mostly Remote: Time spent working remotely is consistently 50% time or more. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.
• Profile 4- Fully Remote: Time spent working remotely is 100% with occasional but inconsistent presence in UMN locations. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

We recognize that one-fifth of Americans identify as neurodivergent. We work hard to make our work environment a place where everyone is welcome and given the opportunity to thrive. Please reach out with any needs you may have with our hiring process to feel fully supported and demonstrate your skills.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and 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. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.