Posting Title
Data Research Analyst Lead
Department Overview
The Center for Survey Research (CSR), part of the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia, is a full-service survey research center committed to community-engaged, public impact research. CSR applies the best tools of quantitative and qualitative social science to support local governments, state agencies, academic researchers, and non-profit organizations. The team includes professional researchers, student assistants, and administrative personnel, managing 15-20 survey projects at any given time.
Position Summary
The University of Virginia's Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service seeks a Data Research Analyst Lead to support the Center for Survey Research. This full-time position will lead data management and statistical analysis across CSR's diverse portfolio of surveys. The role includes hands-on programming and analysis, project coordination, and the supervision of student research assistants. This is a critical position for ensuring high-quality, insightful data outcomes that support the Center's public service mission.
Responsibilities
Coordinate with the Principal Investigator and Project Coordinator to define project analysis needs, set timelines, and ensure delivery of data products.
Perform and oversee data preparation and statistical analysis using SPSS, Excel, R, and other tools.
Clean and prepare data from multiple collection modes (e.g., online, phone, entry).
Develop and apply survey weights based on sampling/post-stratification.
Merge, modify, and structure datasets for analysis.
Design analysis plans and implement them.
Conduct inferential statistical analyses and summarize findings.
Draft reports, visualizations, and audience-appropriate narratives.
Provide quality assurance and supervision to student RAs on related tasks.
(Optional) Participate in oral presentations of findings if interested.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree with at least three years of relevant work experience.
Experience managing raw data, conducting data cleaning, and troubleshooting.
Knowledge of inferential statistical techniques used in social science research.
Proficiency in at least one statistical software or programming language (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R, Python).
Strong technical writing and research documentation skills.
Excellent interpersonal and team collaboration skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
Graduate degree in data science, statistics, sociology, psychology, political science, economics, public health, or related field.
Three or more years of professional experience in social science or public health research.
Experience conducting survey research and/or analyzing survey data.
Proficiency in SPSS.
Ability to present results orally to varied audiences.
Project management certification is a plus.
An advanced degree in a related field may be considered in lieu of professional experience. A combination of professional experience and an advanced degree would be considered a preferred qualification.
Physical Demands
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extended use of computers. Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings and conferences.
Salary Range
The anticipated hiring range is $60,000-$70,000, commensurate with education and experience.
Position Type & Work Location
This is an exempt, benefited, full-time position.
This position may be fully remote. Candidates may also choose to work in-person or hybrid from CSR's office in Charlottesville, VA.
This position is restricted and is contingent upon continued funding and satisfactory performance.
This position does not sponsor applicants for work visas.
About UVA and the Community
At UVA, we are deeply committed to building a community of excellence, respect, and mutual support. Charlottesville offers vibrant culture, history, outdoor beauty, and a dynamic economy. Learn more at www.virginia.edu/life/charlottesville and https://embarkcva.com/.
Application Timeline
This position will remain open until filled. Review of applications will begin on [insert date].
Additional Requirements
The University will conduct background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This position requires a standard background check.
References will be completed via UVA's standardized process, SkillSurvey. A total of three references will be requested during the final interview phase.
How to Apply
Please apply through Online and search for "R0075252." Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching "Find Jobs." Complete the application and upload the following required materials:
Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the "Resume" box. Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Reference Check Process
References will be collected through UVA's SkillSurvey tool during the final phase of the process. A total of three references will be required.
Contact
For questions about the position, please contact Kara Fitzgibbon at ksf5fe@virginia.edu.
For questions about the application process, please contact Bill Crane, HR Recruiter Title, at Xer5ff@virginia.edu.