Institutional Research Data Analyst

NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) provides quality and affordable higher education to empower lives and strengthen communities within Northwest Arkansas and surrounding areas. As the largest community college in Arkansas, NWACC is recognized as a leader in education. NWACC offers a full range of associate degrees, certificates and workforce training programs that prepare students for rewarding futures and careers. NWACC employees are dedicated to fostering a diverse educational community and cultural learning environment that supports student success. Reporting to the Director of Institutional Research (IR), the Data Analyst performs data extraction, analysis, and reporting to support institutional research activities. This position is responsible for querying institutional data systems, integrating data from multiple sources, and producing accurate tables, datasets, and summaries to support decision-making across the institution. Essential Duties: Independently extract, clean, and analyze data from multiple institutional systems (e.g., Workday, Modern Campus, ADHE AHEIS) to produce accurate and consistent datasets Conduct data validation and quality checks to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliability of outputs Apply quantitative methods (e.g., frequency, mean, median, mode, distributions, and trend comparisons) to summarize, interpret, and report data Develop tables, charts, and summary outputs using Excel and data visualization tools Support the development of recurring and ad hoc reports, including internal, state, and federal reporting requirements Independently complete moderate-level analytical requests and contribute to more complex analyses with guidance Maintain organized and reproducible documentation of data sources, queries, and analytical methods Contribute to improving data processes, reporting workflows, and documentation standards Maintenance and updating degree audit software and other assessment software for the college. Communicating degree plan updates to Student Records, Advising and other stakeholders. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to data governance and compliance requirements Additional duties may be assigned as necessary to support the goals and objectives of the department and college Rate of Pay: $48,671 annualized *Higher compensation may be considered based on qualifications directly related to position This is a 100% in person position, No remote options. Skills Assessment: Finalist candidates will complete a 90-minute, job-related skills assessment using realistic NWACC-style datasets (e.g., Excel/CSV files). Candidates will be asked to integrate the data, answer key questions, and produce a concise report that demonstrates their ability to analyze, visualize, and clearly communicate findings, including effective use of analytical tools. Minimum Qualifications: Associate degree (AA/AS), or equivalent course work as documented in academic transcript, in data science, analytics, mathematics, information systems, or a related field, and relevant professional experience Demonstrated experience using SQL and Power BI for data extraction, transformation, and reporting Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in data science, analytics, mathematics, information systems, or a related field Experience in advanced data visualization and dashboard development Experience developing automated reporting workflows or data pipelines using SQL and Power BI Experience working with higher education data systems or reporting environments Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel functions including Power Pivot, Dax, Power Query Proficiency in SQL and Power BI for data extraction, transformation, and reporting Ability to extract, clean, validate, and integrate data from multiple sources into accurate and reliable datasets Understanding of statistical concepts, including mean, median, mode, frequency, distributions, variability, and trend analysis Ability to create clear tables and effective data visualizations (charts, graphs) Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy Ability to follow defined processes and maintain clear documentation Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills Ability to communicate findings clearly to internal stakeholders Experience using AI-assisted tools to support data analysis, coding, and workflow efficiency Physical Demands/Work Environment: The following physical activities described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and expectations. While performing the functions of this job, the employee is: Frequently: Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding Sitting Standing Walking Constantly: Hearing Repetitive motion Talking The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading; and/or visual inspection at distances close to the eyes. Environmental Conditions: The following work environment characteristics are representative of those encountered by employees while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. The work environment typically consists of a professional office setting with a moderate noise level, including sounds from conversations, office equipment, and occasional movement of staff. Lighting is standard for office spaces, and the temperature is controlled to remain within a comfortable range. Employees may occasionally need to visit other areas, such as storage rooms, conference spaces, or outdoor locations, where environmental conditions may vary. Infrequently, exposure to louder noise levels or physical activities, such as moving lightweight materials, might be required. NWACC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, please see our EEO policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr