Shenandoah University’s Office of Institutional Research and Assessment is accepting applications for a Research Assistant. This is a full-time benefited position located on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia.

The Research Assistant (RA) will work with the Director, Associate Director(s), and constituencies across campus to plan, coordinate, and implement the University’s participation in various national surveys and will manage a series of in-house and consortia-based surveys and course evaluations. Using data from these surveys, the RA will develop and maintain a cycle of institutional briefs appropriate for distribution across campus constituencies in support of planning, evaluation, and decision-making across the university. The RA will also be involved in responding to external and internal requests for information as well as various data analysis projects. Additionally, the RA will support the director in monitoring office activity that involves surveys, reporting, data analysis, data management, and administrative projects and will help coordinate selected day-to-day office operations. The RA will also assist with the collection, maintenance, and analysis of data while developing and maintaining a repository of assessment reports.

General Duties:

• Analyze data and interpret research findings using descriptive, inferential, and multivariate statistics as well as content analysis.
• Design and prepare statistical charts, tables, and graphs using a variety of computer software application programs.
• Assist with academic and institutional assessment projects.
• Write and disseminate research reports to university constituents.
• Keep abreast of trends and developments in the field of higher education, institutional research, and information technology. Share relevant information with administrators, faculty, and staff as appropriate.
• Respond to additional administrative and academic offices as time and resources permit or as determined by the Director.
• Attend conferences or relevant professional associations or participate in other professional activities on a yearly basis.
• Update and maintain Institutional Research presence on the university LMS (Blackboard) and web page.

Required Skills

Required Experience

Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree is required with two years of related experience in an institutional research office, including experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting. The RA will have a strong knowledge of research methods, survey design, sampling, survey methodology, and statistical analysis. Strong technical skills and proficiency with various software packages, including MS Office applications, database tools, and data query tools, are required. In addition, excellent analytical skills, the ability to work independently or as part of a team, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple and changing priorities and meet deadlines are necessary. The ideal candidate will have excellent quantitative skills, including the ability to communicate technical information in oral, written, and graphic form to individuals with varying backgrounds. Familiarity with concepts, trends, and issues in higher education is strongly preferred. Experience in data management using datasets and data warehousing is preferred.

How to Apply:

The complete application will include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing ways in which they may be able to contribute to that commitment.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Shenandoah University values the unique and diverse perspectives of individuals and communities locally and globally and seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical, or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.

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