Data Operations Research Analyst (00053)

State of Montana • Helena, MT

3d

About The Position

The Data Operations Research Analyst is the primary research and data-request professional in the Montana Office of Public Instruction’s Data Operations unit for requests involving sensitive data and personally identifiable information (PII). The position guides complex research activities, coordinates secure data-sharing practices with OPI Data Governance, designs statistical models and methods, and supports statewide reporting and access through public-facing and secured systems, including GEMS and OPI reporting suites available through PowerSchool. The role requires advanced analytical skills, independent judgment, and collaboration with internal and external partners to support high-quality data analyses, compliant data sharing, and evidence-based decision-making.

Applicants must reside in Montana. The position is in the PERS retirement system. A resume is required; the posting requests employment dates and supervisor names and phone numbers for each position. The first review of applications is November 18, 2026.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, economics, computer science, education research, or a related field.
• Four years of related experience involving research activities, study design, statistical analysis, or complex data querying.
• Demonstrated experience using SQL to query large, complex datasets.
• Knowledge of research design, study methodology, sampling strategies, and statistical modeling applicable to complex educational datasets.
• Knowledge of relational databases, data structures, and SQL.
• Knowledge of FERPA, state privacy laws, data governance principles, and best practices for managing sensitive data and PII.
• Knowledge of data quality concepts, including limitations, reliability, and appropriate use of administrative data in research.
• Knowledge of statistical disclosure-avoidance methods, such as data masking and suppression techniques.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects and data requests, maintain confidentiality, and comply with legal and policy requirements.
• Must reside in Montana.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree with research experience gained through graduate-level study, or comparable research experience in a professional or academic setting.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research or statistical analysis related to student outcomes, including subgroup- or population-specific trends.
• Demonstrated experience handling sensitive data or PII in compliance with associated privacy standards.

Responsibilities

• Guide complex research activities and respond to data requests involving sensitive data and PII.
• Coordinate secure data-sharing practices with OPI Data Governance.
• Design statistical models, research methodologies, and analytical methods for complex educational datasets.
• Support statewide reporting and access through public-facing and secured systems, including GEMS and OPI reporting suites available through PowerSchool.
• Write and execute complex SQL queries and validate results across multiple data sources.
• Prepare research materials, including reports, visualizations, dashboards, and technical documentation.
• Develop data specifications and operational processes for secure sharing of sensitive data or PII.
• Collaborate with program staff, external partners, and state agencies on research, data, and interagency initiatives.
• Assess data quality and methodological considerations, and communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Plan and complete complex research and analytical projects independently while managing multiple requests accurately and in compliance with legal and policy requirements.

Benefits

• Health coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays (a combination of up to 38 per year)
• Opportunities and room for professional growth
• Public service loan forgiveness eligibility may apply through employment with the State of Montana
• Work/life balance
• Family-friendly workplace

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level