Assessment and Evaluation Assistant (Hybrid)

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The full salary range for this position is $25.62- $44.11. The budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $27.14- $29.22.

Initial applicant review will begin on or around October 28th, 2024. Posting will remain open until filled.

This position will be hybrid.

This position is a contract appointment with an end date of June 30, 2025.

This position is eligible for mid-level benefits.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and the first American research university built in the 21st century. With more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced offers an environment that combines a commitment to diversity, inclusion, collaboration and professional development. With bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs, strong research and academic partnerships, and community involvement, the UC Merced campus is continually evolving and requires talented, knowledgeable and dynamic educators, researchers, management and staff.

Ranked among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced is uniquely equipped to provide educational opportunities for highly qualified students from the San Joaquin Valley and throughout California. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design and supports the economic development of Merced and the region.

The Merced 2020 Project, a $1.3 billion public-private partnership unprecedented in higher education and completed in 2020, nearly doubled the physical capacity of the campus, enhancing academic distinction, student success and research excellence. UC Merced also operates the Downtown Campus Center, a $33 million, three-story administrative building located in the heart of Merced.

The university's mission of educational excellence and rigorous inquiry is powered by three schools and numerous research institutes and centers that seek scientific and social solutions for the Valley, California and the world. In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced is preparing the way for a rigorous medical education program.

The course of UC Merced's evolution is piloted by a long-range strategic plan. Enacted in 2021, the 10-year blueprint is guiding how the values of equity and justice influence our pathway to earning Carnegie R1 research status, growing enrollment, upholding our identity as a minority-serving institution, and operationalizing how commitments to equity, diversity and inclusion are enacted in each campus unit.

Under the direct supervision of the Division of Undergraduate Education's Assessment Analyst within the DUE, the Assessment and Evaluation Assistant will be responsible for the processing/coding of assessment/evaluation data collected for a broad range of assessment and evaluation efforts supporting DUE programming and services with a primary focus on student success initiatives. The position will also fulfill data requests using a variety of data sources available throughout the University and be able to make meaningful connections within the data to answer questions about the student experience. In addition to supporting the collection of quantitative data, other work may include qualitative assessment efforts (focus groups, interviews) and providing assessment processing support to appropriate units within the DUE. The incumbent will prepare draft reports and data presentations for consumption by internal and external partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts research, analysis, and interpretation of observations and data from various sources to identify underlying themes and provide recommendations. Codes and analyzes data from various assessment/evaluation methods and extract reportable information. Creates briefings and draft reports that reconcile multiple sources, integrates research and literature and highlights diverse perspectives.
• Supports the development, maintenance and integrity of assessment platforms for the Division of Undergraduate Education collaborating with administration and IT staff as needed. Collaborates with DUE staff in assessment development of various instruments in support of annual assessment plans. Meets instrumentation timelines, proofs and posts instruments with appropriate testing parameters. Determines and communicates logistical testing details to staff, train student employees on established protocols, supervise secure testing processes, and ensure results are posted in a timely manner.
• Provides coordination for the planning and implementation of assessments to improve student success outcomes and meet DUE strategic goals. Establishes and meets deadlines, reviews assessment and evaluation materials with staff, and offers advice regarding development and formatting of selected materials. Participates in assessment/evaluation planning and other assigned meetings. Provides session feedback for constituent groups as necessary. Research and update process improvement for assessment and evaluation activities as needed.
• Collaborates and provides input in the development, distribution, and compilation of assessment and evaluations for assigned projects to ensure timely review in completing established annual assessment planning cycles.
• Other duties as assigned, including supporting projects as directed by Divisional leadership.
• Participation in professional development.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in a related area. (Required)
• One year of relevant work experience in a higher education setting, or a combination of education/training/experience. Advanced degree is preferred and may substitute for the required experience; however, the incumbent must possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined below in order to successfully perform the work. (Required)

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Familiarity with data collection, analysis, and visualization software and techniques (such as: Excel, R, Python, SPSS, STATA, SAS, Qualtrics, Tableau, etc.).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google applications.
• Demonstrated analytical skills needed to analyze quantitative and qualitative data, to interpret findings and to draw informed conclusions.
• Demonstrated experience accessing information stored in large data systems and using computer applications, including statistical, spreadsheet, and presentation software. (Preferred)
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to write clearly on complex issues and to make public presentations to large groups.
• Ability to complete a variety of assignments with attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy, and to maintain accurate and detailed records.
• Ability to establish priorities and manage multiple activities to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment to facilitate assigned projects.
• Ability to identify problems and generate solutions.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including an ability to maintain professional boundaries with constituents of diverse ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to handle confidential materials professionally and to utilize discretion in releasing confidential information.

Background check will be required.

How to Apply:
An online application is required for each position to apply.The University of California, Merced is aware that some web-based application processes may be cumbersome for differently abled applicants. Where appropriate, alternative accommodations will be provided. For applicants with disabilities who need additional assistance using TAM, or reasonable accommodations during the interview or search process, please contact ucmjobs@ucmerced.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, pregnancy, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam-era veteran, or other protected categories covered by the UC Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Policy. UC Merced intentionally promotes and maintains a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace by demonstrating it neither condones nor tolerates employment practices that discriminate against or harass any person or specific group of persons on the basis listed above. We seek candidates who will support our vision to cultivate a vibrant, equity-minded, inclusive excellence university community. When applying to UC Merced, we strongly encourage you to reflect on our Principles of Community and our 2021 strategic plan.

Vaccination Program Policy:

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. For new University of California employees, the applicable deadline is 14 days after their first date of employment.

Smoke and Tobacco Free Policy:
The University of California, Merced is a smoke and tobacco free workplace. Information and the Smoke and Tobacco Free policy is available at http://smokefree.ucmerced.edu.

E-Verify:
All employers who receive Federal contracts and grants are required to comply with E-Verify, an Internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA). E-Verify electronically verifies employment eligibility by comparing information provided on the I-9 form to records in the DHS and SSA databases. Certain positions funded by federal contracts/subcontracts requires UC Merced to notify job applicants that an E-Verify check will be conducted and the successful candidate must pass the E-Verify check.

Pay, Benefits & Work Schedule:
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University of California visit: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/