The Research & Data Analyst is vital in supporting data-informed decision-making at Midland College. This position is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from various sources, including the college’s data warehouse, student information system, and other repositories. The Research & Data Analyst will utilize their expertise in data warehousing tools, SQL, and data visualization to generate reports, dashboards, and presentations that provide insights into key performance indicators, student success trends, and institutional effectiveness. This role requires understanding higher education data, attention to detail, and professional communication skills.
Data Analysis & Reporting
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Utilize data warehousing tools and write SQL queries to extract data from the college’s data warehouse, student information system, and other databases
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Clean, transform, and aggregate data to prepare it for analysis
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Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of college programs, services, and initiatives by preparing and organizing data for review as part of a collaborative team process
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Develop and maintain interactive dashboards that visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) related to student success, enrollment, retention, and other areas
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Create reports and presentations that effectively communicate data insights to various audiences, including faculty, staff, administrators, and external stakeholders
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Contribute to developing presentations and reports by summarizing data findings and supporting the communication of insights to internal stakeholders
Compliance & Documentation
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Respond to ad-hoc data requests from internal and external stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and adherence to data privacy and security regulations
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Implement and maintain data quality control procedures
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Develop and maintain documentation for data definitions, data sources, and reporting processes
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Ensure compliance with FERPA and other data privacy regulations
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Maintain an understanding of higher education data standards and reporting requirements (e.g., IPEDS)
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Support collecting, preparing, and submitting accurate and timely data for institutional reporting requirements, including federal, state, and accrediting agencies (e.g., IPEDS, THECB)
Collaboration & Support
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Support accreditation and program review efforts by preparing data sets, organizing documentation, and assisting with analysis activities
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Develop an understanding of trends, best practices, and key issues in higher education research and assessment to support informed data work
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Collaborate with colleagues in the Institutional Research and Institutional Effectiveness departments to support assessment activities, program review processes, and institutional research projects
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Provide training and support to faculty and staff on data access, reporting tools, and data interpretation
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Contribute to other departmental and institutional initiatives as needed
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Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications;
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Associate degree or equivalent coursework in statistics, computer programming, research methods, or related fields required
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Ability to learn and apply institutional data standards and definitions
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Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau), or experience using data warehousing tools to access and analyze data
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Demonstrated ability to work with MS Office suite
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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Ability to effectively manage time and prioritize projects to meet established deadlines
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Ability to work in a fluid environment with multiple priorities
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Demonstrated commitment to customer service and teamwork
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Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License, good driving record, and be insurable on Midland College’s insurance policy
Preferred Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., business, statistics, computer science, data science, higher education)
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Familiarity with higher education data and reporting practices, including IPEDS and student information systems
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Knowledge of data warehousing principles and best practices
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Familiarity with statistical software packages (e.g., SPSS, R)
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Proven experience with SQL programming for data extraction and manipulation
Physical Demands:
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Primarily performs work at a computer workstation, requiring prolonged periods of sitting and focused attention
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Requires manual dexterity for tasks involving data entry, spreadsheet manipulation, and the use of office equipment
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Regular and repetitive use of a keyboard and mouse
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The person in this position frequently communicates with others verbally and electronically; must be able to exchange accurate information
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Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus
- Occasionally moves between office locations and other areas on or off campus to attend meetings or conduct training sessions
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Work is performed in a standard office setting with typical lighting, temperature, and noise levels
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May be required to work extended hours or attend Midland College or community events to support institutional research activities or training initiatives
