Senior Data Analyst

Northeastern University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

Northeastern University is seeking a Senior Data Analyst to collaborate with stakeholders across the university and NU-RES. You will perform data collection, modeling, and reporting, building robust dashboards and self-service analytics to inform decisions.

You will design processes to ensure data accuracy, support AI-assisted data extraction, and communicate results to non-technical audiences while maintaining reporting standards across systems such as Coeus and ePAWS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant subject area and 3+ years of experience with querying databases, SQL, and Excel.
• Experience developing robust dashboards using Tableau and/or Power BI; creating visuals using data visualization best practices.
• Proficiency with BI and reporting tools such as Cognos or Snowflake preferred.
• Understanding of analytical concepts, data modeling, and predictive analytics.
• Strong project management, time management, and communication skills in a collaborative setting.

Responsibilities

• Collect data (internal and external) to support decision making and reporting across university units.
• Develop and iterate self-service reports and dashboards with an eye to automation and re-use.
• Manage data from legacy systems (e.g., Coeus) and current eRA platforms (ePAWS).
• Oversee data quality, reporting accuracy, and documentation of data pipelines.
• Perform ad hoc analyses to support strategic initiatives and reporting needs.

Skills

SQL

Excel

Tableau

Power BI

data modeling

predictive analytics

data visualization

communication

teamwork

project management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field

Tools

Tableau

Power BI

Cognos

Snowflake

Job description

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Data Quality & Research Administration Analytics Manager and with support of senior level team members, the Senior Data Analyst will work closely with key stakeholders to identify and conduct data analysis projects that support the mission and goals of the University and Northeastern University Research Enterprise Services (NU-RES). The Senior Data Analyst will provide support to key projects through data collection, computational support, and data interpretation and reporting, and will ensure data accuracy and consistent reporting by designing and creating optimal processes and procedures to systematize the data reporting process. The incumbent will use advanced data modeling, predictive modeling, and analytical techniques to develop reports used in key data submissions to internal and external stakeholders. Possess a good sense of humor, ability to be calm under pressure, and effectively communicate with report requestors to ascertain requirements for reports that tell an accurate story.

This position can also reside in Toronto.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant subject area (e.g., computer science, data science, mathematics, statistics, information technology, or related field); 3+ years of experience with querying databases, SQL, and Microsoft Excel; experience developing robust dashboards using Tableau and/or Power BI; creating visuals using data visualization best practices.
• Proficiency with business intelligence and reporting tools such as Cognos or Snowflake preferred.
• Understanding of, and experience in, using analytical concepts and tools, including data modeling and predictive analytics.
• Project management, time management, and communication skills necessary to execute responsibilities in a collaborative, academic setting.
• Teamwork and collaboration in a professional setting.
• Demonstrated curiosity, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to advise and clearly communicate ideas and results to non-technical audiences.
• Strong ability to manage multiple assignments while working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and work well independently, within a team environment, and with external users as well as a variety of internal audiences.
• Experience working with university research administration data and systems preferred.
• Experience documenting business procedures and processes preferred.
• Understanding of, and experience in, using AI-enabled tools to provide appropriate levels of support to daily work.
• Familiarity with electronic research administration (eRA) systems (e.g., Coeus, ePAWS, or similar eRA platforms) preferred.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

45% — Data Collection, Assessment, Interpretation, and Reporting

Collect relevant data (both internal and external) to be used by college constituents to support decision making and strategic direction, resource allocation, internal and external reporting, and other operational decisions. Success factors include the accuracy and relevance of the data, analysis, and the clarity and usefulness of final reports. Develop and iterate on self-service reports and dashboards with an eye towards automation and re-use. Manage data sourced from both legacy systems (e.g., Coeus) and current eRA platforms (e.g., ePAWS 2.0), ensuring continuity and accuracy across reporting environments.

25% — Data Visualization

Oversee the development and maintenance of key performance dashboards that show progress toward strategic and operational goals related to research. Work closely with Research Enterprise Services stakeholders to identify opportunities for additional dashboard requirements as needs evolve. Develop and iterate on self-service reports and dashboards with an eye towards automation and re-use. Tools include Tableau (including Tableau Prep and Tableau Server), Cognos, and other visualization platforms as applicable.

10% — System Support

Evaluate and test back-end changes to electronic research administration systems as they impact data quality and access, including connectivity with Tableau and the Cognos Data Warehouse environment. Monitor data quality in reports and adjust as needed. Support migration activities between legacy and current systems, including data validation and reconciliation tasks.

10% — Process Improvement

Identify opportunities to define areas for process improvement and work with stakeholders to design and build technical processes that improve efficiencies and address business issues and needs. Develop and maintain documentation of data pipelines, reporting logic, and source-of-truth definitions to support team continuity and institutional knowledge.

10% — Ad Hoc Duties

Perform ad hoc research and analysis to support special projects and strategic initiatives serving faculty and staff across Research Enterprise Services in meeting their reporting and analytical needs. May include supporting AI-assisted data extraction, research analytics benchmarking, and cross-institutional data collaborations.

Applicants must have current work authorization for the country in which they will be based. The University is unable to sponsor a visa or work permit for this position.

Position Type

Data Planning and Analysis

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type

110S

Expected Hiring Range

$76,335.00 - $107,823.75

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.