Data Analyst and Evaluation Specialist

At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise.

Primary Purpose

The Data Analyst and Evaluation Specialist supports the maintenance of data infrastructure while providing data analysis and insights to support operational and strategic decision making pertinent to student success. This includes responsibility for sourcing, understanding, consolidating, integrating and analyzing data associated with student success activities within the Associate Provost, Students portfolio. Insights inform strategic direction and leadership decisions for campus wide or faculty-specific initiatives. Strong consultation skills and effective communication of analysis and findings are essential for collaboration with program managers.

Key Accountabilities

• Data Acquisition and Management: Operates within University policies and exercises best practices for privacy and confidentiality. Advises internal stakeholders on best practices for data and records management. Develops a deep understanding of available data, systems, dictionaries, and distribution channels from multiple information systems across the university.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Develops Power BI dashboards, visualizations, reports, and analytical products supporting real-time monitoring, strategic planning, operational decision making, accountability reporting, and articulation of the student experience. Collaborates with teams to interpret findings and validate insights.
• Leadership, Relationships, and Consultation: Provides strategic direction to the management and leadership teams in the creation and ongoing maintenance of their outcomes-based evaluation plans. Supports and advises leadership with respect to any new or evolving research strategies.
• Other: Participates in departmental events and provides coaching, training, and co-op student development to ensure student growth and development.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Statistics, Economics, Data Analytics, or a combination of equivalent experience and education.
• At least 3 years of experience in a data analysis and/or research role – working with complex datasets.
• Strong educational and professional background in data management, statistical analysis, and related applied social research methods.
• Experience developing surveys for data collection and performing data analysis.
• A record of and commitment to participating in ongoing learning and engagement in the areas of equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, accessibility and indigenization.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of barriers to student success for underrepresented or non-traditional students.
• Strong understanding of the assessment/evaluation process including instrument design.
• Strong knowledge of data management, manipulation, interpretation, and analysis skills using statistical analysis or data transformation tools.
• Excellent consultation and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Equity Statement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff and is committed to accessibility for all employees.