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Minnesota State Colleges and Universities · 1 month ago

Data Strategist - Research Analysis Spec Sr

St. Paul

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

$32.40/hr - $47.76/hr

3+ years exp

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is committed to supporting diversity and innovation in education. The Data Strategist role is essential for shaping data into a strategic asset that informs decision-making and aligns with institutional goals, while collaborating with senior leadership to develop actionable insights.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Comp. & Benefits

No H1B

Responsibilities

Data strategy development

Competitive strategic oversight

Data governance and management

Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner

Qualification

Data strategy developmentData governancePredictive modelingData visualizationPythonRSQLAWSAzureGoogle CloudAnalytical skillsCommunication skillsCollaboration skillsCritical thinking

Required

3 years of experience in data strategy, analytics, or related roles with a proven track record of developing and executing strategies that align with organizational goals and improve performance (A Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, Business Analytics, Economics, or a related field may substitute for one year of experience)

Demonstrated knowledge of research methodology and applying appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative methods

Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting complex datasets to generate actionable insights

Expertise in data strategy, management, and governance with strong analytical and critical thinking skills; experienced in predictive modeling, machine learning, and AI using advanced analytics tools (Python, R), data visualization platforms (Tableau, Power BI), and large-scale databases and cloud environments such as SQL, AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud

Strong business acumen, with the ability to understand organizational strategy, identify business needs, and connect data initiatives directly to institutional goals and measurable outcomes

Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with a proven ability to translate complex data insights into strategic, actionable narratives for leadership and non-technical audiences, while working effectively across cross-functional teams throughout the institution

Commitment to promoting success for all students through data collection, reporting, and decision-making processes

Preferred

Advanced degree in Data Science, Analytics, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field

5+ years of experience in data strategy, business intelligence, or analytics roles, with a focus on higher education or other large, complex organizations

Professional certifications related to data science, business analytics, or project management (e.g., Certified Analytics Professional, Tableau Certification) are highly preferred

Advanced proficiency in data visualization and reporting tools such as Tableau, Power BI, and/or similar platforms

Proven ability to lead complex, multi-faceted data initiatives, manage timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder expectations, and influence decision-making through data-driven insights

Experience in change management, leading cross-functional teams, and promoting the adoption of new technologies and strategies

Understanding of the higher education landscape, especially the unique role and data challenges of community colleges

Familiarity with various data sources, including internal operational data and external labor market information