Education Finance Research Analyst

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

2d•$6,276 - $9,644•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) is seeking an Education Finance Research Analyst to join its Office of Finance and Administration (OFA). This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). The position follows a hybrid work model, requiring onsite presence for business needs like collaboration or training, while also allowing for remote work with the expectation of maintaining performance and availability. The primary purpose of this role is to conduct data collection, research, analysis, and provide support to Oregon’s K-12 educational agencies. This support focuses on data use, research, and technical assistance to improve critical statistics and reporting, ultimately promoting educational equity. The responsibilities extend to the state School for the Deaf, regional programs for children with disabilities, and education programs in Oregon youth correctional facilities. The ODE's mission is to foster excellence for every learner through innovation, collaboration, leadership, and service, valuing equity, high-quality education, service, leadership, and teamwork.

Requirements

A Bachelor's Degree in any discipline that included six-quarter units in statistics or quantitative analysis methods and procedures, and three years experience using computerized applications to independently gather, compile, and analyze data and prepare narrative or statistical reports. Two of the three years must have included coordinating complex research projects.
OR Five years of research experience using computerized applications to independently gather, compile, and analyze data and prepare narrative or statistical reports. Two of the five years must have included coordinating complex research projects.

Nice To Haves

Research design and analysis: Experience independently planning and leading complex analytical or statistical research projects, including identifying research questions, designing methodology, and drawing defensible conclusions from data.
Data systems and metadata: Experience with database design, computer query and reporting tools, or managing metadata and data documentation for data collections or reporting systems.
Data visualization: Proficiency with data visualization software (such as Power BI or Tableau) and experience presenting complex data in graphic, tabular, or pictorial form for public or executive audiences.
Technical report writing: Experience writing effective technical narrative and statistical reports, including polished documents and presentations intended for audiences outside your organization.
Governmental accounting standards: Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Governmental Accounting Standards Board standards, or experience applying financial reporting frameworks in a governmental or public sector setting.
Communicating technical findings: Ability to translate and explain technical or statistical findings for nontechnical audiences such as legislators, school district staff, or members of the public.

Responsibilities

Plan, conduct, and oversee complex research and data analysis projects that support statewide school finance reporting, fiscal transparency, and agency decision-making.
Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of K-12 financial data by establishing quality assurance processes, overseeing reporting requirements, and supporting state and federal mandates.
Support Oregon school districts and other educational agencies by providing guidance, training, and technical assistance on financial data, research, reporting requirements, and the statewide Chart of Accounts.
Design and maintain data tools, visualizations, and reporting resources that enhance fiscal transparency, inform policy and operational decisions, and promote accountability and educational equity across Oregon's public education system.
Plan, lead, and manage the development, implementation, and evaluation of major research or complex data analyses projects.
Establish data quality assurance procedures and approve research results in support of the Office of Finance and Administration reporting requirements, including State School Fund, School Finance Transparency and Accountability, Federal mandates and required reporting, state mandates and required reporting, and School Finance Data Visualizations.