Institutional Research Director jobs in Bridgeport, CT

About Sacred Heart University:

As the second-largest independent Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers nearly 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University's nine colleges and schools: Arts & Sciences; Communication, Media & the Arts; Social Work; Computer Science & Engineering; Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing; and St. Vincent's College. Sacred Heart stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. The contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts, and at the same time cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change-in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 388 Colleges-2023 Edition, and Best Business Schools-2023 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliated radio station, WSHU, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu

View SHU's Faculty Experts Here

Job Description:

Create operational reports and other duties within the IRADS Office, as bandwidth allows.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sacred Heart University is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Institutional Research Analyst to join our Institutional Research, Accreditation and Decision Support (IRADS) team. This role, reporting to the Assistant Director for Institutional Data and Reporting, will primarily focus on generating operational reports to support day-to-day institutional needs, while also contributing to broader IRADS functions. As an Institutional Research Analyst, you will play a critical role in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting institutional data to provide accurate insights for decision-making. Strong SQL skills and an in-depth understanding of databases are essential for this position. The ideal candidate will have a meticulous approach to data analysis, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and the ability to effectively communicate complex findings. The incumbent must be committed to student success and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Responsibilities:

• Generate and maintain operational reports and dashboards using SQL to provide timely and accurate data for various institutional departments and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand their reporting needs and translate requirements into effective queries and visualizations.
• Develop a deep understanding of institutional data sources, structures, and business processes to ensure accurate data retrieval and interpretation.
• Design and implement data validation procedures to ensure the integrity and quality of operational reports and data outputs.
• Conduct regular data audits and reconciliations to identify inconsistencies, errors, or gaps in data, taking necessary actions to resolve issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify process improvement opportunities, streamline data collection and reporting processes, and enhance data accuracy and efficiency.
• Assist in the execution of institutional research studies, surveys, and assessments to support strategic decision-making and policy development.
• Utilize SQL and database expertise to query and analyze large datasets, providing insights and recommendations for improving institutional performance and outcomes.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies related to institutional research, data analysis, and reporting methodologies.
• Collaborate with the university's data infrastructure and systems administration teams to ensure alignment and coordination between institutional research and information technology structures and processes.
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS NEEDED:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as data analytics, computer science, statistics, or a related discipline. A master's degree is desired. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in institutional research, data analysis, or a related field, with experience in SQL and database management.
• Expertise in SQL, with a demonstrated ability to write complex queries, optimize performance, and manipulate large datasets. Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services desired.
• Strong understanding of database structures, data modeling, and data management principles. Familiarity with database design and maintenance a plus.
• Excellent attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms to create informative and visually appealing reports and dashboards desired.
• Familiarity with institutional research frameworks, methodologies, and compliance standards, including knowledge of privacy regulations and ethical guidelines.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience in higher education or a research institution is preferred but not required.
• Commitment to student success and diversity, equity and inclusion is required.

Additional Information:

Statement of Personal & Organizational Responsibility for Inclusive Excellence

Inclusive Excellence is the recognition that our institution's success is dependent on how well we value, engage, and include the rich diversity of students, staff, faculty, administrators, alums, and surrounding community. It is a mastery of inclusion that fosters a consistent sense of belonging. Inclusive Excellence is aspirational and is the pillar that guides the mission, vision, and function of this unit.

To achieve Inclusive Excellence, our personal and organizational responsibilities are to:

• Actively promote a collegial environment and consciously apply our mission and values to create a culture of inclusion and belonging; a safe space where all may thrive and succeed.
• Participate in educational and developmental activities to increase awareness and competencies of issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging; apply that understanding to guide your approach to all aspects of your job and the community as a whole.
• Demonstrate that we are "Stronger Together" as described in the Office for Inclusive Excellence statements.

Application Instructions:

Please apply online, faxes and emails will not be accepted. A cover letter is appreciated.

Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.