Data Analyst

Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated data analyst with expertise in Tableau to join our dynamic team. The data analyst will play a crucial role in supporting EdSystems’ mission of supporting students’ transition from high school to college and careers. The data analyst will work with the senior director of data to help transform complex data into meaningful insights that drive decision-making for communities, school districts, and higher education institutions. The data analyst will also be engaged to help develop a data strategy for the organization. This position requires a candidate who is passionate about data-driven storytelling, has a strong understanding of data systems and analysis, and is proficient in technologies for creating interactive and impactful visualizations (preferably Tableau).

Key Responsibilities

Data Analytics and Visualization

• Uses statistical packages and languages such as R and Python to analyze data and derive trends
• Design, develop, and maintain interactive Tableau dashboards and reports to support understanding of key educational data trends and insights.
• Collaborate with project teams to gather and translate data and functional requirements into effective data visualizations.
• Stay current with industry trends, tools, and best practices in data visualization and analysis, particularly in the education sector.

Data Management and Integration

• Extract, transform, and load data from various sources, including databases, spreadsheets, and cloud-based platforms, to prepare datasets for analysis.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and workflows to ensure the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data used in dashboards and reports.
• Work to define and implement processes and standards to ensure data security.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner with internal teams to understand project goals and develop data-driven solutions that address key questions and challenges.
• Conduct training sessions and workshops for staff and external partners to build data literacy and empower stakeholders to use data effectively.
• Provide technical support to stakeholders on the use of data tools for interpretation and storytelling.
• Provide guidance and support on the use of Tableau to partners interested in data visualization.

Research and Reporting:

• Assist in the preparation of research reports, policy briefs, and presentations that communicate findings from data analyses and visualizations.
• Support the communications team to create compelling data narratives for external publications, website content, and social media platforms.

Quality Assurance

• Perform quality assurance checks on data, data tools, and visualizations to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with data governance standards.
• Continuously assess and improve existing Tableau dashboards and reports to enhance usability, performance, and impact.
• Solicit feedback from users and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and implement changes to meet evolving needs.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in data science, statistics, computer science, education, public policy, or a related field. Minimum of two years of experience in data analysis and visualization, with a strong emphasis on Tableau.
• Proficiency in Tableau Desktop, Tableau Server, and Tableau Prep, including advanced features such as calculated fields, parameters, data blending, and dashboard actions.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in working with large and complex datasets.
• Solid understanding of data management principles, including ETL processes, data integration, and database management.
• Proficiency in SQL for querying databases and manipulating data.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, concise, and actionable insights for non-technical audiences.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to data accuracy and quality.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in data science, statistics, education policy, or a related field.
• Experience working with educational data systems, such as student information systems, state longitudinal data systems, or workforce development data.
• Familiarity with other data visualization tools and programming languages (e.g., Power BI, Python, R) is a plus.
• Experience with data governance, data privacy, and compliance regulations in the education sector.
• Knowledge of education policy and workforce development trends at the local, state, and national levels.

Why Join EdSystems?

EdSystems helps create a world where students have clear, unambiguous paths to college and career opportunities that equip them for meaningful participation in the global economy. We collaborate with state and local education agencies, workforce boards, community colleges, universities, and other stakeholders to design, implement, and evaluate policies and practices that ensure successful transitions to and through postsecondary and career opportunities for students, with a particular emphasis on historically marginalized populations.

• Impactful Work: Be part of a team that is dedicated to driving systemic change and improving educational and workforce outcomes for students and communities.
• Collaborative Environment: Work in a dynamic and collaborative environment where your contributions are valued and innovation is encouraged.
• Professional Development: Access opportunities for professional growth and development through training, workshops, and conferences.
• Flexible Work Options: Enjoy a flexible work environment that promotes work-life balance, including a hybrid work schedule.
• Competitive Benefits: NIU offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition waivers, and more.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and a portfolio of Tableau visualizations to LaTonya Hicks at lhicks@niu.edu. In your cover letter, please describe your experience with data visualization and analysis, interest in education and workforce systems, and ability to communicate complex data insights effectively.

Northern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.