Data Analytics & Policy Research Analyst (Statistician III)

Job Responsibilities

Job Purpose:

Our mission is to support teachers, empower parents, and serve students so all graduates are prepared for success.

The South Carolina Department of Education is seeking a Data Analytics & Policy Research Analyst to drive data analysis projects and activities. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing and executing research studies, performing inferential statistical functions, designing data visualizations, and contributing to the development of evidence-based policies that support the Agency’s strategic initiatives.

Responsibilities:

Design, conduct, and lead research studies from the hypothesis development stage through the final analysis and presentation of findings.

Collaborate with Agency executives, divisions, and cross-functional teams, fostering strategic partnerships in carrying out Agency-wide data and analysis services that align with organizational goals and requirements.

Partner with the divisions of Governmental Affairs, Communications, and Chief of Staff in identifying specific policy analysis requirements and analytical support.

Collect, clean, and transform raw data from various data sources. Use inferential statistical techniques such as regression analysis, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance and time-series analysis.

Develop and interpret complex data visualizations (charts, graphs, dashboards) to effectively communicate insights. Identify trends, patterns, and anomalies within data sets.

Package ideas in a logical, compelling, and influential way, and present data and policy insights to various audiences, including team members, executives, and partners.

Develop strategies to implement data collection and maintenance strategies, selecting appropriate technologies and services and considering factors such as data storage, processing, security, and accessibility.

Perform other duties as assigned.

This position is located in the Chief of Staff Office.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A bachelor's degree with statistical courses and experience in statistics.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with complex datasets, statistical tools and techniques, data analysis, data architecture, or software design and development.

Ability to design data analysis studies, including methods and procedures for the collection, sampling, maintenance, analysis and presentation of information.

Commitment to continually building on existing knowledge and skills to be up to date on the latest software and analysis innovations.

Desire to innovate and create cutting edge solutions which make a significant impact in an empowering work environment.

Willingness to work well with people to convey knowledge and concepts, including team members, executives, and partners.

Knowledge of statistical software (R, Python, SAS, etc.), data query languages (SQL, NoSQL, etc.), data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, etc.), or other programming languages (HTML, Java, C++, Julia, etc.).

Additional Comments

As a part of a generous compensation package, we offer comprehensive benefits that include generous paid time off, preeminent health care benefits, professional development opportunities, pension, a 401(k), and a hybrid work schedule with opportunity for remote work.

The South Carolina Department of Education offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children

15 days annual (vacation) leave per year

15 days sick leave per year

13 paid holidays

State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs

ONLY THOSE APPLICANTS CHOSEN FOR AN INTERVIEW WILL BE NOTIFIED BY LETTER THAT THE POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED.