The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) is the State Education Agency for the District of Columbia charged with raising the quality of education for all DC students. Within OSSE, the Division of Data, Assessment, and Research is responsible for using data to measure and communicate student success. We strive to develop data and measurement systems and resources, produce actionable data, and conduct research that helps schools, community members, and families improve outcomes for all students in the District.

The Office of Research, Analysis, and Reporting (ORAR) team partners with divisions within OSSE across the PK-20 spectrum as well as our LEAs and other agencies across the District to promote the quality and transparency of education data and to inform policy and practice. The education research analyst will serve as a policy and research expert concerning postsecondary education projects on college access and success, career training and employment outcomes and will be responsible for ensuring that decision makers have an enhanced view of the pathways between education and employment for DC students. The education research analyst will employ rigorous research techniques, including quantitative and qualitative methodologies, to evaluate and provide specific recommendations concerning post-secondary career education policies and practices as well as drive continued research.

Duties and Responsibilities

The education research analyst will analyze relevant national and local trends in accountability systems and/or early learning and remain current with current research methodologies and best practices. The research and policy associate will collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders to promote data-driven decision making and the strategic use of data to promote equitable evaluation of education programs.

Additional functions/responsibilities are as follows: Performs quantitative and qualitative analysis that informs practice and policy; Project manages data requests and analytical projects in the portfolio of accountability and/or early learning; Develops the technical skills, leadership, and education policy knowledge of other analysts on the team; Ensures the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of the data they provide by following established quality assurance (QA) procedures; Documents adhere to and improve the efficiency of standard operating procedures, business requirements and rules, and technical specifications; Serves as an expert on research design and methodologies; Writes and edits policy briefs and analyses for various audiences (e.g., DC Council, agency leadership, parents, and families); Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders and research partners, as appropriate, to plan and execute research projects and promote data-driven decision-making; Advances OSSE’s research agenda by proposing, leading, and conducting research studies; Remains current with education policy issues and relevant research methodologies; Supports data transparency and use; generates reports and data visualizations and collaborates to build data tools to provide useful and relevant data and information to stakeholders and the public on policy and research initiatives; Promotes the office's role within the education research community by representing the team in meetings with education professionals, policymakers, and representatives in support of the office's mission; and Handles confidential data securely.

Qualifications and Education

Applicants must have at least five (5) years of relevant work experience and possess at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a relevant degree (Master's degree or higher; PhD preferable); or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Applicants must have at least 24 semester hours in a field related to the work of the Education Research Analyst; One course must be research methods and two courses in statistics.

Education research analysts in ORAR possess and demonstrate the following qualifications and experience - Concision and clarity in verbal and written communication (for both technical and non-technical audiences); Knowledge of education research theory, policy, principles, and practices preferred; Knowledge of advanced statistical techniques and software packages (e.g., Stata, R, SQL) is highly preferred; Experience cleaning and processing large datasets; Advanced project management skills and experience; and Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the work.

Licensures, Certifications, and other requirements

None

Working Conditions/Environment

Work is normally performed in an office environment. Occasionally, the incumbent may be required to visit various locations within the District of Columbia.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty: Monday – Friday; Varies

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-1730-14

Type of Appointment: This is an Education Service (ES), “At-Will” Appointment. All positions and appointments in the Education Service serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.

Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

Promotional Potential: No known promotion potential

Area of Consideration: Open to Public

Position Designation: This position has been designated as security sensitive therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability and as such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Residency Preference: Applicants claiming “Residency Preference” will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.