Full-Time Data Analyst

As the Data Analyst, you support the college's mission by providing data-driven insights that inform strategic decisions and ensure compliance with institutional reporting (e.g., IPEDS, US News, NC-SARA, HLC). Reporting to the Director of Institutional Analytics, you analyze, interpret, and communicate data to support the college’s goals. You leverage your analytical expertise (descriptive, diagnostic, exploratory, and predictive) to transform complex data into clear, actionable insights by synthesizing quantitative and qualitative information, customizing data pulls to meet specific needs, and conducting ad hoc analyses. This position requires a balance of technical acumen and collaboration skills, focusing on process automation and enhancing data accessibility. Your contributions directly impact the college’s capacity for informed decision-making, supporting data transparency, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and strategic growth.

Requirements

Who is American College of Education
Founded in 2005, American College of Education continues to be a leader in professional development through our online programs. The mission of ACE is to deliver high-quality, affordable and accessible online programs grounded in evidence-based content and relevant application. Our graduates are prepared to serve, lead and achieve personal and professional goals in diverse, evolving communities. As a socially conscious institution, we’re dedicated to making a positive impact and inspiring our students to do the same. 

ACE is a premier organization that is continually recognized for its commitment to social responsibility. In 2016, ACE became a Certified B Corporation. As a socially conscious institution, we believe we have a responsibility to our students, alumni, employees, local communities, and society. We strive to make an impact in the world that goes well beyond our bottom line.

Who You Are
You are passionate about helping students achieve their educational goals. You thrive in a competitive and collaborative team environment. You are comfortable working remotely and have experience collaborating with others in a virtual environment. You possess a strong attention to detail.    

As the Data Analyst, you support the college's mission by providing data-driven insights that inform strategic decisions and ensure compliance with institutional reporting (e.g., IPEDS, US News, NC-SARA, HLC). Reporting to the Director of Institutional Analytics, you analyze, interpret, and communicate data to support the college’s goals. You leverage your analytical expertise (descriptive, diagnostic, exploratory, and predictive) to transform complex data into clear, actionable insights by synthesizing quantitative and qualitative information, customizing data pulls to meet specific needs, and conducting ad hoc analyses. This position requires a balance of technical acumen and collaboration skills, focusing on process automation and enhancing data accessibility. Your contributions directly impact the college’s capacity for informed decision-making, supporting data transparency, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and strategic growth.

What We Look for in the Ideal Candidate

• Demonstrates self-reliance by meeting/exceeding workflow needs. 
• Demonstrates positive attitude and motivation, concern for students, teamwork, and excellent time management skills. 
• Follows established processes as outlined by organization and leadership. 
• Completes assigned duties based on daily business needs and individual skill set. 
• Consistently produces a high volume of quality work. 
• Capable, and adapts as needed, to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. 
• Proven ability to work independently with limited supervision and with other department personnel. 
• Must support and embrace the College’s B Corp mission to improve the people and communities we serve through our civic engagement initiatives.  
• Must have exceptional communication, organization, and time management skills. 
• Must be "self-motivated" as well as creative and efficient in proposing solutions to complex, time-critical problems. 
• Must be collaborative in driving decisions and a team-player. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a high attention to detail. 
• Builds and maintains student satisfaction. 
• Recognizes and anticipates student needs. 

Day to Day Responsibilities

In this role you will wear different hats, but your skills will be especially essential in the following areas:

• Data Collection and Analysis: Gather, analyze, and interpret data from diverse sources to inform strategic planning, enhance departmental reporting, drive institutional improvements, and support evidence-based decision-making.
• Compliance and Reporting: Lead the data gathering and completion of external compliance reports (e.g., IPEDS, HLC, NC-SARA, state, partnerships) and surveys (e.g., U.S. News), ensuring timely and accurate submissions.
• Data Visualization and Reporting: Prepare clear, user-friendly data visualizations and summaries for presentations, reports, and dashboards using PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and Power BI.
• Technical Skill: Leverage advanced Excel functions (e.g., pivot tables, conditional formatting, complex formulas), SQL proficiency, and Power BI ability to gather and conduct data analysis work.
• Collaboration: Serve as contact for data requests, partnering with requestors to define scope, develop project plans, and ensure effective project delivery.
• Data Quality Assurance: Perform thorough validation and quality checks to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and integrity, proactively identifying and resolving anomalies.
• Data Governance: Help develop and maintain a data dictionary, standardized data definitions, and operating procedures to ensure data consistency and quality.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Business, Analytics, or a related field (Master's degree preferred). 
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in institutional research, data analysis, or business intelligence, ideally in a higher education setting.
•  Technical Skills:
   
  • Excel: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis and visualization.
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  • SQL: Skilled in writing and troubleshooting SQL queries is preferred or willing to learn.
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  • Data Visualization: Experience with Power BI for data visualization is preferred or willing to learn.
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• Compliance Knowledge: Familiar with compliance and survey reporting requirements (e.g., IPEDS, HLC, NC-SARA, US News).
• Project Management: Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 
• Attention to Detail: Demonstrated focus on accuracy, reliability, and maintaining data integrity.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, translating complex data insights for diverse audiences.
• Collaboration: Effective team player who can also work independently and is adaptable to changing project demands.
• Data Privacy and Compliance: Skilled in handling sensitive information in compliance with FERPA and other state and federal data regulations.