Junior Data Scientist

The Research Associate I (RA I) plays an integral role in implementing research and evaluation activities. The RA I supports data collection, cleaning, analyses, and checking / validation as well as implements procedures for document management, tracking, reporting, and presentation.

The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in developing data collection instruments using SurveyCTO or Kobo Toolbox, will possess a strong foundation in statistics, programming and data visualization using Python and SQL, and has experience communicating, verbally and in writing, complex findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

The RA I implements policies and procedures to maximize responsiveness to client information needs. The RA I may collaborate with senior staff on continued project, Center, and business needs.

This is a hybrid work position, requires person to be in San Mateo or North Bethesda office 3 days a week.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS :

• Assists in developing and maintaining data collection instruments (e.g., survey platforms such as SurveyCTO, Kobo Toolbox).
• Processes, cleans, and organizes project data.
• Contributes in developing and implementing data quality protocols.
• Assists in developing and implementing data management plans, including management of project metadata.
• Conducts descriptive and inferential statistical analysis under supervision of senior research staff.
• Develops data visualizations in dynamic data dashboard platform such as Microsoft Power BI or Shiny Web Apps using R or Python.
• With supervision, assists in developing and tracking of deliverables for contract compliance (e.g., drafting written materials such as reports, PowerPoint presentations, issue briefs, and case studies that include data visualizations such as charts, tables, and infographics) to convey findings and communicate information in a manner tailored to the intended audience.

Makes revisions with direction and supervision

• Participates and contributes to evaluation / analytic / methodological decision-making and activities.
• Conducts literature reviews and assists in synthesizing information.
• Contributes to the design of data collection tools including surveys, qualitative interviews, data abstraction tools.
• Administers quantitative data collection protocols (e.g., distributes surveys) and monitors data collection progress.
• With supervision, may serve as a task lead for a contract deliverable.
• May assist in business development activities.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS :

Education and Experience :

Master's Degree and 2 years of focus experience in a similar position.

Software Proficiency :

• Python, SQL
• Version Control (e.g., Git, GitHub, BitBucket)
• SurveyCTO, Kobo Toolbox
• Jira, Confluence, Monday.com or other project management software
• Microsoft 365 (Power BI including Power Query, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Skills :

• Strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to implement data cleaning procedures with supervision
• Ability to conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analyses with supervision
• Ability to summarize data with attention to detail

Language :

English fluency (oral and written)

Location : Must be able to report to the San Mateo, California or North Bethesda, MD

Physical Requirements :

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk or computer workstation.
• Regularly uses a computer, keyboard, and mouse.
• Normal or corrected vision to read documents, view computer screens, and perform tasks that require visual accuracy.
• Ability to hear and understand spoken information in person and over the phone.
• Minimal lifting and carrying may be required, typically light office supplies or documents.
• Ability to move within the office environment to access equipment, files, and interact with colleagues.
• Ability to handle occasional stress related to deadlines, workloads, or challenging tasks.

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED : This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position, nor will it be the sole basis for any subsequent employee evaluations.

Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required by their supervisor.

APPLICATION INFORMATION :

If you meet the minimum requirements for this position, please click on the "Apply" link posted below and complete the application.

Please include a cover letter, resume, and at least three (3) professional references. Our company is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer.

Applicants can learn more about the company's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster at EEOPost.

pdf. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.