Research Analyst

Research Analyst

Turn data into decisions that shape Montana's future. As a Research Analyst, you will transform complex workforce data into insights that guide businesses, inform policy, and expand opportunities for communities across the state. If you're driven by curiosity and want your work to make a visible impact, this role delivers.

MISSION STATEMENT: Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity. It's about the people and the impact we make in our communities every day. We are proud of our open, team-based, supportive, and collaborative work environments. Learn more about DLI here.

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Workforce Services Division produces trusted labor market information that helps Montana's economy thrive. As the Research Analyst, you will be a key contributor to the state's Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, supporting survey design, data collection, analysis, and publication. You will serve as the subject matter expert and partner with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to ensure high-quality, reliable data about Montana's labor market. Your work directly informs decisions made by employers, educators, policymakers, and workforce partners across the state. This is a hands-on role where your analysis drives real-world outcomes and long-term workforce strategy.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU: Build end-to-end data expertise by managing the full lifecycle of a federally recognized labor market data program, from design through publication. Strengthen advanced analytical skills by working with large, complex datasets to identify trends and produce meaningful insights. Develop high-impact communication skills by translating technical data into clear reports, dashboards, and presentations for diverse audiences. Gain project and program management experience by balancing multiple deadlines, priorities, and federal reporting requirements. Expand your professional network by collaborating with federal partners, employers, educators, and workforce leaders across Montana and beyond. This full-time role offers the chance to support communities across Montana while enjoying the state's outdoor recreation, strong sense of community and high quality of life.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Manage Montana's OEWS program from start to finish, ensuring data collection, analysis, and reporting meet federal standards and deliver value to stakeholders. Design and implement effective surveys and data collection strategies that produce accurate, reliable occupational employment and wage data. Analyze complex datasets to identify trends, explain findings, and highlight what the data means for Montana's workforce and economy. Create and publish reports, dashboards, and visualizations that make labor market information clear, accessible, and useful for decision-makers. Serve as the state's OEWS expert by advising partners, answering technical questions, and coordinating with BLS regional and national teams. Build strong relationships with employers to support efficient data collection, improve response rates, and reduce reporting burden. Manage multiple deadlines and deliverables, ensuring timely completion of data products and publications in a fast-paced environment. Maintain program integrity by documenting methodologies, meeting contractual requirements, and continuously improving processes and outcomes.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES: Candidates must demonstrate the ability to:

• Data analysis and critical thinking: Ability to analyze and interpret data using critical thinking to assess quality and develop clear, well-supported conclusions.
• Research design and methodology: Knowledge of research design and methodology, with the ability to develop and evaluate data collection processes for accuracy, consistency, and reliability.
• Data storytelling and visualization: Skill in data storytelling and visualization, with the ability to present complex information in a clear, engaging, and actionable manner for diverse audiences.
• Communication and influence: Ability to communicate and influence effectively, including translating technical concepts into plain language and building understanding across stakeholder groups.
• Project and time management: Ability to manage projects and time effectively, including organizing work, prioritizing competing demands, and consistently meeting deadlines while maintaining quality.
• Data governance and documentation: Knowledge of data governance principles, with the ability to maintain organized, transparent documentation of data sources, methodologies, and limitations.
• Relationship building and customer focus: Ability to build relationships and demonstrate customer focus, working collaboratively with employers, partners, and data users to support shared goals and improve outcomes.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education and Experience) Demonstrated experience designing, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative or qualitative data to support decision-making or program evaluation. Proven ability to develop reports, dashboards, or publications that communicate complex information clearly to a range of audiences. Experience managing projects or programs with multiple deadlines, priorities, and stakeholder expectations. Background working with external partners such as businesses, government agencies, or community organizations to gather or share information. Strong understanding of data integrity, documentation practices, and the importance of transparency in reporting and analysis. A degree in economics, statistics, data science, public administration, or a related field may supplement relevant professional experience but is not a substitute for demonstrated skills and competencies in the areas noted above. Equivalent combinations of education and directly related experience will be considered.

HOW TO APPLY FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY: A complete state application is not required; however, you will need to initiate the application and attach the resume, cover letter or other required documents at time of application to be considered for this position. Resume will auto fill the application, but the application will not be scored or reviewed. Failure to attach the cover letter and resume will result in your application being considered incomplete and will not be considered further. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process. Tip: When attaching your resume, cover letter or other required documents you must mark the attachments as "RELEVANT" or we will be unable to view your documents. Required application materials: Cover Letter - Your Cover Letter should explain how your experience and education meet the identified required skills and competencies, with examples that demonstrate your qualifications. Resume - include all work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position, including duties, dates of employment. Only online applications will be accepted. By applying online, you can receive updates and monitor the status of your application. All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. You will receive an application confirmation email with instructions on acceptable preference documents and how to submit such documents. If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

BENEFITS: Being able to enjoy the quality of life in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity! Our mountains, waterways and open spaces provide not only beautiful scenery but year-round recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, skiing and snowmobiling. Montana boasts a high-quality education system and a variety of entertainment including fairs, rodeos, and theaters. Read more about our great state here. See our other incredible benefits here. These are some of our benefits just to name a few: Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana. 38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays. Military leave: You'll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay. Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises. Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP - click here to learn more. Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan - click here to learn more. Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary. A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available. – Click here to learn more. Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness- click here to learn more! Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth. State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.