Data Insights Specialist

Southern Methodist University - Dallas, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Dallas, TX

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Data Insights Specialist at the Meadows School of Arts, SMU, is responsible for interpreting and representing data to support decision-making across the school. This role requires technical expertise in data analysis and visualization, as well as strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate insights to various stakeholders. The specialist will bridge the gap between data visualization and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that data-driven insights are integrated into the school's decision-making processes.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and represent data to support decision-making across the Meadows School of Arts.
• Utilize tools like Python, R, SQL, Tableau, and Power BI to convert complex data sets into meaningful reports and visualizations.
• Synthesize various data types (enrollment, retention, graduation, etc.) to provide actionable insights for program efficacy and resource utilization.
• Assist in gathering data for annual reports and related surveys.
• Continuously monitor and analyze data visualizations to identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with university units on data sources, reports, and dashboards.
• Assist with the maintenance of assessment platforms and provide training for stakeholders.
• Manage and archive Meadows records and databases in conjunction with relevant staff.
• Stay current on trends in higher education data and develop new hypotheses for effective reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred in data science, computer or information sciences, or related field.
• Two years of work experience in data support services in higher education administration required.
• Experience in institutional research and building effective data visualizations preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills to engage with a wide range of constituencies.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze problems and devise solutions.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Python, R, SQL) and visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI).
• Ability to learn new concepts and technologies through formal classes or on-the-job training preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in graphic design for data visualization.
• Familiarity with database platforms like PeopleSoft or Banner.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision plans.
• Wellness programs to support employee health.
• Retirement programs for employees and their families.
• Tuition benefits for professional and personal development opportunities.