Senior Assessment Analyst at Columbia University Libraries

METRO | 599; Independence (KS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution seeks an Assessment Program Senior Assessment Analyst to manage and analyze assessment efforts across the library. The role involves qualitative and quantitative research to improve library services, promote data transparency, and collaborate with various library divisions. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and have 3-5 years’ experience in research methodologies and data analysis tools. This position offers a vibrant and supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in designing and applying research methodologies in an organizational setting.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work under deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret quantitative data to identify trends and insights.
• Design and conduct qualitative research studies including surveys and interviews.
• Create and maintain dashboards to facilitate data access for decision-making.

Skills

Data analysis

Qualitative research

Quantitative research

Dashboard development

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Applied Statistics, Education or related field

Tools

SPSS

Tableau

Excel

Qualtrics

SAS

R

NVivo

Job description

Columbia University Libraries is a globally-recognized academic research library, serving one of the world’s most important centers of research and learning. The Libraries build, sustain, and make discoverable collections that transcend traditional boundaries of format and domain, keeping pace with a dynamic and rapidly evolving information environment and creating unique opportunities for users to encounter global thought. As vital partners in the University’s research and learning ecosystem, the Libraries connect users with rich and distinctive collections, foster meaningful learning experiences, and provide innovative research support for a large, diverse user population.

Reporting to the Associate Director, Assessment and Analytics, the Assessment Program Senior Assessment Analyst manages and participates in assessment efforts across Columbia University Libraries; leads the collection, verification, maintenance, analysis, and documentation of assessment and analytics data; contributes to an evidence-based approach to achieving strategic initiatives related to library operations and user needs; develops, produces, and disseminates annual and ad hoc reports; promotes data transparency and awareness across the Libraries; coordinates and supports colleagues engaged in assessment work. Works with staff across the Libraries to employ assessment measures and data analysis tools, and methodologies effectively.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes and interprets quantitative data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that inform decision-making, planning, and evaluation of library programs and services. Prepares summaries and visualizations for leadership and other stakeholders.
• Designs and conducts qualitative research studies—including surveys, focus groups, interviews, usability studies, and other qualitative or mixed-method approaches—to assess library services, user experiences, and organizational effectiveness. Manages research design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Promotes data transparency by creating and maintaining a standardized set of dashboards to increase the ability of the Libraries’ staff to access, use, and understand data for decision-making. Ensures the accurate and timely availability of assessment reports on the staff intranet and other collaborative document management tools.
• Plans, develops, and executes appropriate assessment and planning approaches, methods, measures, techniques, documentation, and infrastructure for a sustainable institutional assessment program.
• Works with various divisions across the library system (Technical Services, Collection Development, Distinctive Collections units, Library Information Technology, Research & Learning, Access Services, Financial Services, etc.) to appropriately manage and secure sources of data with an aim to enable data-informed decision-making.
• Fosters a culture of assessment and continuous improvement by leading workshops, consultations, and training programs on data literacy, assessment methods, and interpretation of results.
• Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned or required to meet the Libraries’ and the University’s goals and objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Applied Statistics, Education, or a related field with demonstrated experience in data analysis is required.
• 3-5 years of experience designing and applying qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research methodologies in an organizational setting.
• Proficiency in using SPSS.
• Experience with dashboard development and data visualization using software such as Tableau, Excel, etc.
• Experience using survey platforms, such as Qualtrics.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate findings to non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment. Outstanding interpersonal skills and ability to form strong collaborative relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work under deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Social Science Research Methods, Statistics, Measurement, Assessment, and Research, or a related field.
• Working knowledge and experience in libraries, higher education, cultural heritage, or non-profit organizations.
• Proficiency in using qualitative and quantitative analysis software such as SAS, R, NVivo, etc.
• Experience developing and performing training programs for both individuals and groups.
• Experience with recognizing and appropriately handling confidential or sensitive requests; respecting the privacy of all library users and employees; and following ethical or institutional review board (IRB) guidelines to ensure the protection of human research subjects.
• Competence with various technologies and applications; willingness to explore the use of new technology in support of effectively achieving goals.
• High risk tolerance for failure and iterative improvement.