Data Research Analyst - OPHI

The Data Research Analyst - OPHI will be primarily responsible for conducting the community indicators analysis as well as responsible for building, maintaining, and communicating a comprehensive library of local data that supports Community Focus’s mission to foster informed, collective action in the Springfield metropolitan region. This position plays a central role in transforming complex, multi-source datasets into accessible, accurate, and compelling data products., The Analyst will work closely with the Community Focus Facilitator, external stakeholders, and steering committee members to ensure that data is not only collected and managed with rigor but communicated in ways that are meaningful and actionable for a range of audiences, from community coalitions and policymakers to academics and the general public. Description of Primary Duties

1. Develops, maintains, and expands a comprehensive library of community indicators across domains such as education, health, housing, economic development, and public safety.

2. Identifies, collects, and manages data from diverse public, partner, and survey-based sources, including federal agencies and local organizations; designs and administers community surveys using platforms such as Qualtrics.

3. Establishes and enforces data quality, documentation, and reproducibility standards, including documenting sources, methodologies, and updates schedules to ensure transparency, accuracy, and continuity.

4. Conducts statistical analyses and program evaluation to identify trends, patterns, and insights, and to assess progress and impact of community programs and policy initiatives.

5. Creates clear and compelling data products, including charts, infographics, dashboards, data briefs, and reports for audiences ranging from community coalitions to the general public.

6. Produces research briefs, topic reports, and narrative summaries that translate data findings into accessible, actionable community insights and supports biennial, annual, and grant-related reporting.

7. Reviews and validates all data outputs to ensure accuracy, clarity, and quality prior to publication or distribution.

8. Responds to data requests from community partners, policymakers, researchers, and internal stakeholders in a timely and professional manner.

9. Collaborates with program leadership, steering committees, and organizational colleagues to define data needs, indicator frameworks, reporting priorities, and cross-program data initiatives.

10. Communicates findings effectively to non-technical audiences and supports the development and stewardship of relationships with data partners and community stakeholders.

11. Supervises and supports graduate assistants and student researchers engaged in data collection, analysis, and visualization activities.

12.Contributes to program operations and credibility by developing internal tools and resources, supporting continuous improvement, and upholding the public image of Community Focus and OPHI., This position is grant funded. Continuation of this position is contingent upon available grant or contract funding. The Data Research Analyst may supervise student workers and graduate research assistants in support of data collection, analysis, and visualization tasks. Equal Opportunity Statement Non-Discrimination Statement

Missouri State University is a community of people with respect for diversity. The University emphasizes the dignity and equality common to all persons and adheres to a strict non-discrimination policy regarding the treatment of individual faculty, staff, and students. In accord with federal law and applicable Missouri statutes, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin (including ancestry, or any other subcategory of national origin recognized by applicable law), religion, sex (including marital status, family status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other subcategory of sex recognized by applicable law), age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law in employment or in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. Sex discrimination encompasses sexual harassment, which includes sexual violence, and is strictly prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

This policy shall not be interpreted in a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Do you have experience in Web-based survey tools?, Do you have a Master’s degree?, Education: A Bachelor’s degree in statistics, data science, social science research, public health, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Experience: Minimum of two years’ experience in data collection, analysis, and visualization, preferably in a research or community-facing setting. Experience producing data reports and visualizations for non-technical audiences using tools such as R, Tableau, and Excel (Python and SQL preferred). Experience designing and administering surveys (e.g., Qualtrics) and working with public-sector or community datasets. Ability to independently manage complex analytical projects with a focus on data quality, reproducibility, and transparency. Experience with program evaluation, grant-funded environments, or supervision of student researchers preferred. Skills: Strong analytical and statistical skills, including data cleaning and descriptive analysis, with the ability to create clear, accurate, and visually compelling charts, infographics, and dashboard-ready outputs. Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Office applications, with working knowledge of SQL and relational databases preferred. Excellent technical and narrative writing skills, with the ability to translate quantitative findings into accessible insights for reporting purposes. Demonstrated attention to detail, commitment to data quality, and strong project management skills, including managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with effective interpersonal and communication skills to engage partners and stakeholders. Adaptable mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and evolving program needs. Other: This position is grant funded. Continuation of this position is contingent upon available grant or contract funding.