About the Job
CENTER FOR TRANSPORTATION STUDIES
RESEARCH DATA ANALYST
University Classification Name: Researcher Professional 2 – Data Analytics
University Classification Job Code: 8352DA
The Accessibility Observatory or AO (https://access.umn.edu), a CTS research program, is a leading national resource for the research and application of access to destinations data to transportation system planning and evaluation. This position will support the Observatory’s National Access Evaluation project as well as other research projects related to destination access, transportation planning, and land use planning.
Purpose of Position:
The Research Data Analyst will assist with the analysis, data sharing, communication, and data management of the Center’s AO program. This includes delivering analysis and evaluation projects; communicating research results; creating and supporting data tools for sponsors and the public; supporting business development activities; and assisting with program management and administration. Position will include tasks from a mix of key functions as described below.
Relationships:
- Research Data Analyst will report to the director of the Accessibility Observatory. Two other full-time research staff and one to three graduate research assistants make up the AO staff.
Primary Responsibilities:
- 40% Data Analysis
Deliver analysis and evaluation projects for the AO program by processing and analyzing existing spatially explicit data on access to destinations; creating, improving, and using software and scripting tools for analysis of geospatial data; and matching end product summaries and graphics to question of interest around the intersection of transportation and land use. Respond to research inquiries and data requests. Maintain records of research data and results.
- 30% Tools for Spatial Data Communication
Apply data visualization best practices to translate complex transportation research concepts and findings into usable, accessible static and interactive digital content for diverse audiences. Create digital tools to share large datasets and derived maps and statistics, with focus on external partner use cases. Explore and test alternative software for best match with data structure, type, and user needs. Iteratively develop tools with internal and external stakeholders. Create supporting documentation and example tutorials of tool use.
- 15% Communication & Outreach
Present and communicate complex information in a clear, accessible way to various audiences, including transportation agency planners and engineers, policymakers, other researchers, students, and the public. Transfer research results into practice by presenting stories of analysis at conferences and agency meetings. Provide support to business development activities that attract funding for access-related research by identifying funding opportunities; facilitating connections with potential research partners; and communicating and promoting AO expertise.
- 10% Administration & Project Management
Contribute as a team member in the administration and management of AO projects and initiatives. Participate in the strategic planning process and lead and/or participate in the delivery of tactics. Utilize project and software management tools to assist the AO director and Lead Researcher in program and process development, project planning and progress tracking, staffing strategies and assignments, and other group management functions as needed.
- 5% Other duties at CTS
Contribute as a team member in the administration of CTS and AO programs. Assist in the design and implementation of Center-wide initiatives and special projects as needed.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree with a major in Geography, Engineering, Urban Planning, Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Biology, Ecology, or related field, plus two years of experience; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience to total 6 years.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in a related field and two years of experience delivering or supporting transportation and land use research projects. Project management and software development version control (e.g. Git and GitHub) experience. Experience using data and geospatial analysis software such as: ArcGIS, QGIS, SQL databases, Python, R. Experience using cloud computing resources such as AWS or Azure. Proven ability to communicate complex issues in a concise and thoughtful manner.
- The successful candidate will also be resilient, curious, and nimble, and able to thrive in a research environment where thoughtfulness and attention to detail are valued.
About the Department
The Center for Transportation Studies (CTS) is a unique University of Minnesota center that conducts transportation research, education, and outreach programs in a broad number of areas. The Center currently operates with a total annual budget of over $22 million, and works with over 25 academic departments throughout the University. CTS consists of approximately 25 professional staff and 15-20 students who deliver the Center’s multiple programs. The Center is funded primarily through sponsored funds from local and national sources, and maintaining long-term funding stability requires strong relationships with various funders and other transportation stakeholders.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $31.25/hr - $35.58/hr; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Time Appointment
Work Profile: This position can be designated as work profiles 1-4:
Profile 1- Office/Lab Based: Time spent working remotely is occasional or inconsistent. Dedicated on campus work space to be provided.
Profile 2-Regularly Remote: Time spent working remotely is consistently less than 50% time. Dedicated on campus work space to be provided.
Profile 3- Mostly Remote: Time spent working remotely is consistently 50% time or more. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.
Profile 4- Fully Remote: Time spent working remotely is 100% with occasional but inconsistent presence in UMN locations. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.
Position Type : Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
