Research Analyst II

Presbyterian Church USA•Louisville, KY

66d•$62,700 - $83,600

About The Position

The Research Analyst II helps the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and other organizations make data-informed decisions through data science, consulting, and research, especially quantitative research, both within the denomination and with ecumenical and interfaith partners. The role develops and leads research projects as principal investigator, works with clients to design studies, manages projects from start to finish, analyzes data, prepares reports, and presents findings. The analyst also collaborates to communicate research accessibly, responds to public inquiries, maintains shared digital workspaces, participates in professional associations and conferences, and contributes to reports and the wider research community. The position requires a commitment to the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), as expressed in its theological confessions, Book of Order, and General Assembly actions. A PhD in a related field is preferred; a master's degree in a social science field is considered. Candidates should have at least three years of social science research experience with a PhD or five years with a master's degree; applied experience is preferred. The role calls for graduate-level statistical proficiency, applied social science research knowledge, survey design skills, and the ability to communicate research to audiences with varying levels of methodological knowledge. Occasional travel for meetings and conferences is required. Remote employees must travel to Louisville, Kentucky, quarterly. PC(USA) describes its benefits package as competitive for eligible employees and emphasizes balance among work, leisure, and spiritual nurture.

Requirements

PhD in a related field preferred; a master's degree in a social science field is considered.
At least 3 years of social science research experience with a PhD, or 5 years with a master's degree; applied-setting experience preferred.
Graduate-level proficiency in statistics and ability to independently select, apply, and communicate appropriate analytical methods.
Up-to-date knowledge of applied social science research methods.
Ability to develop quality surveys using best research practices.
Strong interpersonal skills for working with colleagues, clients, and the public.
Ability to interpret research data for people with limited knowledge of statistics or research methodology.
Working knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SPSS.
Excellent writing, public speaking, and data visualization skills.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to handle multiple projects at once.
Ability to translate complex analytic issues into practical research questions.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team with a professional demeanor.
Ability to exercise sound independent judgment in research design and methodology.
Ability to build and maintain productive client relationships, understand client needs, and translate them into research plans.
Ability to tailor communication of research findings to different audiences, from technical specialists to the general public.
Commitment to the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), as expressed in its theological confessions, Book of Order, and General Assembly actions.

Nice To Haves

Ability to speak one or more languages other than English.
Experience with qualitative research design and analysis, including focus groups and interviews.
Experience with online survey platforms such as Alchemer or Qualtrics.
Experience with copyediting and/or visual design.
Experience managing digital workspaces and organizing and maintaining shared files and documents.
Familiarity with Microsoft 365 tools, especially Outlook and Teams.
Experience working in a hybrid environment with a mix of in-person and remote colleagues.
Familiarity with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) or experience in a faith-based or nonprofit organization.
Deep understanding of and commitment to cultural and racial ethnic inclusiveness, valuing diverse groups, communities, cultural constituencies, and points of view, and relating well to people with varied backgrounds and theological perspectives.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead research projects as principal investigator, overseeing their direction and quality.
Work with clients, as assigned by the coordinator, to design research studies suited to their needs.
Manage projects from start to finish, conduct analyses, write reports, and deliver presentations as required.
Manage, clean, and analyze data using SPSS and Excel to support research goals and ensure accuracy.
Collaborate with the assigned communications specialist to make research findings accessible through varied communication channels to the public, Presbyterian communities, and national agency and mid-council staff.
Respond to public inquiries by providing data and research findings.
Manage and maintain shared digital workspaces, files, and documents for team collaboration and recordkeeping.
Participate in professional associations and conferences; stay current with research practices and scholarly work in religion; publish reports and contribute to the research community as appropriate.
Assist team members as needed to ensure project workloads are shared fairly.