Research Associate for Data Lake | The University of North Carolina at Charlotte - Military Veterans

Position Number: 012665 Department: Strategic & Success Initiatives (Adm) Employment Type: Permanent - Full-time Months Per Year: 12 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The Research Associate develops and implements research and data analytics plans, policies, and processes that result in effectively supporting the division's research priorities using the Student Affairs Data Lake. The Research Associate leads the development of data quality assurance and monitoring policies and procedures for the Student Affairs Data Lake. Using the Student Affairs Data Lake, the Research Associate leads the creation of data visualizations and shares findings to support a divisional culture of evidence. The Research Associate ensures that research and data analytics activities using the Student Affairs Data Lake align with the division's strategic goals and objectives. The incumbent provides expertise and guidance to leadership and staff in planning and implementing meaningful research and data analytics activities using the Student Affairs Data Lake. The incumbent serves as a consultant and a resource to professional staff in the areas of data quality, data management, research, data analysis, and data visualization. The work of the Research Associate requires a high level of effective collaboration within and outside of the Division of Student Affairs. Minimum Experience / Education: Bachelor's degree in data science, measurement, statistics, education research, or other discipline related to assessment, evaluation, statistics, data science, or social science research OR equivalent working experience in any of these disciplines. Proven experience (3+ years) in data analysis, data management, or research, preferably within a data lake or big data environment. Strong understanding of data lake architectures, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS , Azure, Google Cloud), and big data tools (e.g., Denodo). Familiarity with data governance principles and frameworks, including data quality, privacy, and security best practices. Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., SQL , SAS , SPSS , Python, R, Tableau, Power BI). Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to handle complex data challenges and deliver actionable insights. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical data concepts into understandable insights for non-technical audiences. Detail-oriented with a passion for data accuracy, integrity, and continuous improvement. Preferred Education Skills and Experience: Advanced degree in a related field (e.g., Master's or PhD in data science, measurement, statistics, education research, or other discipline related to assessment, evaluation, statistics, data science, or social science research) OR equivalent working experience in any of these disciplines. Four or more years experience working in a higher education setting; professional practice in or collaboration with Student Affairs. Four or more years experience in a position with responsibility for data management, data analytics, and data integration. Experience with machine learning algorithms, data mining, or predictive analytics.