Data Scientist – Distance Learning & Continuing Education

Florida Atlantic University•Boca Raton, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Data Scientist – Distance Learning & Continuing Education – Boca Raton, FL. The Data Scientist plays a critical role in supporting the university’s strategic decision-making by managing and analyzing data related to distance learning and non-credit continuing education programs. This position is responsible for collecting, tracking, analyzing, and reporting student and course data across multiple metrics to inform planning, compliance, and program growth. This position is housed within the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Analysis and serves as a key data partner to the Center for Online and Continuing Education.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field and two years of full-time experience in data analysis, reporting, or a similar role.
Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., SQL, Excel, Python, R, or similar).
Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or similar).
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in higher education, particularly in institutional research or institutional effectiveness.
Familiarity with student information systems and learning management systems.
Knowledge of distance education reporting requirements and metrics.
Experience in analyzing non-credit or continuing education programs.
Data integrity and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple data streams and reporting timelines.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
Collaborative and service-oriented mindset.

Responsibilities

Design and maintain systems to collect, validate, and manage data related to distance learning and continuing education.
Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and consistency across multiple platforms and sources.
Develop and implement data tracking methodologies for key performance metrics.
Analyze student population data across various metrics (e.g., enrollment trends, demographics, course participation, retention, and outcomes).
Produce recurring and ad hoc reports to support institutional planning, accreditation, and respond to BOG, BOT, and FAU leadership requirements.
Complete external surveys related to online and continuing education, such as the US News Online Bachelor's Program ranking.
Develop dashboards and visualizations to communicate insights clearly to leadership and stakeholders.
Track and report on distance learning student activity, including online course participation and program growth.
Support reporting needs related to state BOG, federal, and accreditation requirements.
Identify trends and opportunities to improve online faculty and student engagement and success.
Using the university registration system (CampusCE), collect and analyze data for non-credit and continuing education offerings.
Monitor enrollment, revenue performance, completion rates, and program effectiveness.
Analyze internal and external market data and provide insights to support program development, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency.
Maintain comprehensive records and documentation, including certifications and supporting materials, to fulfill long-term data requests and compliance requirements.
Partner with academic departments, institutional research, IT, and administrative units to align data definitions and reporting standards.
Translate data findings into clear recommendations for non-technical audiences.
Support leadership with data-driven insights for strategic initiatives.
Extract and interpret external datasets (e.g., IPEDS, National Student Clearinghouse, Florida Department of Education) to identify trends in enrollment, program demand, and student outcomes relevant to distance learning and continuing education.
Develop comparative analyses to benchmark the university against peer and competitor institutions.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family)
Dental
Vision
Life Insurance
Flexible Spending plans
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
State retirement options, including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans
State employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
Flexible work arrangement plans
Sick Leave Pool Program
Paid time off (eligible employees), including vacation and sick leave, 1 personal day, 9 paid holidays, and paid winter break (at the President’s discretion)
Paid Community Engagement Volunteer Service Day
Employee Educational Scholarship Program (EESP) for eligible Staff/Faculty - Tuition assistance after 6 months of full-time employment.
For in-unit faculty, the EESP program may be extended to spouses and dependent children (eligibility rules apply)