Senior Officer: Data Analyst (Post Level 9) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

Data analysis and development of data analytics

• Use analytical, statistical, and programming skills to collect, analyse & interpret large and/or unstructured data sets
• Effectively mine and analyse large sets of data to derive actionable insights and value from data (internally & externally sourced).
• Deliver accurate reports on time (Including performing required checks to ensure data accuracy and integrity)
• Gather data and enable a centralized data knowledge management system that integrates sources into one platform.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand current challenges and needs that should be met with data solutions.
• Design, build and update various platforms, dashboards and reports.
• Sharing findings using impactful data visualizations and efficient communication.
•  Develop a process to aggregate data and then enable centralization and automated delivery.
• Assess the effectiveness and accuracy of new data sources and data gathering techniques.
• Develop analyses metrics and new reports to support critical project decisions
• Provide input on optimal data architecture to support effective data solutions for assigned projects.
• Support work on predictive analytics and data modelling to derive insights about future project decisions that are aimed at improving student performance and success.
• Over time develop real-time data gathering, analytics and reporting capabilities for assigned CTL focus areas.

​​​​​Research

• Integrating traditional research with data-driven insights
• Present findings from research in appropriate forums (including conferences and journal publications).
• Assist with conducting online and face-to-face workshops to disseminate research findings.

Training

• Contribute to formal and informal CTL staff development, particularly in statistical data analysis skills

Stakeholder Engagements

•  Proactively engaging with CTL staff on Track-Your-Success project requirements and/or needs regarding data analytics.
•  Assist with a range of projects at the CTL and/or UFS pertaining to data analytics, this will include research projects, as well as other institutional or national projects/interventions pertaining to teaching and learning or student success
• Provide data analytic support to Track Your project leads in the Digitally Enhanced

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF Level 7 in computer sciences, mathematics, statistics, data science, or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of relevant data analytics/analysis/science experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience, preferably working with large datasets and experimentation. 

Recommendations:

• Relevant post-graduate qualification
• Experience in working in a similar role in higher education
• SAS/ Python /R /SQL proficiency required, but not limited to this
• Expert Excel user with the ability to understand and build complex spreadsheets
• Experience in working with data visualization tools and software such as but not limited to Microsoft PowerBI or Tableau.
• Sound experience in data mining, modelling and analytics and reporting tools, including the use of AI in these processes.