Remote Chemist - AI Trainer

PositionThe Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education's Policy Analysis and Research unit is seeking a thoughtful and dedicated individual to help drive the organization's efforts in key areas supporting postsecondary access and success in the West. The research analyst will support the unit's work in collecting, managing, analyzing, and presenting quantitative and qualitative data. This includes ongoing periodic data publications and products, research projects and initiatives, analytical tool development, and technical assistance related to state higher education and workforce development policies and practices. The research analyst is responsible for continually improving the clarity and relevance of the data products and research conducted by and for the unit and its principal audiences.Organizational ResponsibilityUnder the supervision of the Director of Evidence and Strategic Initiatives, the research analyst will focus on developing data publications and products related to postsecondary affordability, access, and success. The research analyst will support the unit's data, research, and project management activities, including longstanding work on demographics and projections of high school graduates, research on higher education affordability, and other efforts. A successful applicant will have a deep knowledge of postsecondary data, expertise in analyzing and presenting data for relevant audiences, and be familiar with key higher education issues.Duties and ResponsibilitiesActing as a key research analyst for the Policy Analysis and Research Unit, conduct research and analysis that supports the unit and the organization's focus and body of work in areas of demographic trends, workforce development, and affordability, among others.Assist in the continued development and usage of the Policy Analysis and Research Database to support WICHE's mission, including the collection and analysis of education and workforce data from multiple sources (U.S. Census Bureau, the National Center for Education Statistics, other federal data sources).Prepare research and policy reports and other written material, including WICHE Insights and other reports and website content.Make presentations to a variety of audiences, including public policymakers, state and institutional higher education officials, members of the research and scholarly communities, and others through various formats (in‐person, multimedia, webinars).Respond to inquiries from a variety of constituents and stakeholders, which may include WICHE Commissioners, state agency officials, legislators and their staff members, governors' staff members, institutional leaders and staff, and the media.Collaborate with the Director of Evidence and Strategic Initiatives, the Vice President, Policy Analysis and Research, and the Information Technology department to implement continual improvements to the Unit's and WICHE's capacity to effectively use data resources.Other duties as assigned.Position SpecificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, higher education, sociology, economics or equivalent, and/or four years of relevant professional work experience.Experience in managing large amounts of quantitative data accurately and efficiently using spreadsheets and database applications.Competency in generating effective presentations of data, including charts, graphs, maps, and other visual representations; experience presenting data through interactive tools (Tableau, Power BI, etc.).Knowledge of key data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS, CCD, PSS, and longitudinal surveys), U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Labor data, and state student and longitudinal data systems.Experience with qualitative research methods (interviews, focus groups).Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and at least one common statistical platform (R, SPSS, or STATA). Ability to manage large datasets and create replicable analysis procedures.Familiarity with SQL and relational databases.Ability to establish and maintain effective, cooperative, cordial working relationships.Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to deliver compelling presentations on complex topics to diverse audiences.Creative thinking, ability to produce accurate timely written reports, and to write clearly for policy audiences such as legislators, governors' staff, state agency officials.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a team structure.Knowledge of and interest in higher education and public policies relating to it.Maintain strict confidentiality and data security competence.PreferredMaster's degree in a field suitable to public policy research and analysis.Experience working in a policy‐setting context at the state level (state legislature, agency, or advocacy/non‐profit).Experience designing or redesigning comprehensive organizational solutions/applications for data management.Advanced data visualization knowledge and proficiency (Tableau, Microsoft BI).Experience with quantitative and qualitative research design.Experience in a postsecondary education setting, such as a college/university or higher education research setting.TravelLimited travel may be required; estimate 4–8 trips per year.BenefitsCompetitive benefits package including medical insurance with generous employer contribution to health savings account, dental, life, and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid vacation, sick and personal time, and paid family leave.Compensation$64,000 – $75,000 annually, based on experience.EEO StatementWICHE does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.#J-18808-Ljbffr