Associate Researcher (Data Analytics and Visualization)

Chapin Hall is seeking an Associate Researcher (Data Analytics and Visualization) to work on project teams engaged in empirical, analytical, and conceptual child and family welfare research in Illinois. The Associate Researcher’s main contribution to research projects will be the management, linking, statistical analysis, and presentation of project data using large-scale administrative child welfare datasets.  Presentation includes visualization, when appropriate.  This position will require significant efforts and capacity in developing, maintaining, and refining project codes using appropriate programming languages to support multiple research projects.

This individual will transform raw administrative data into analyzable formats for data analysis and research; participate in discussions regarding study design and methodology; and perform modeling and statistical analyses using R, Python, SQL/PostgreSQL, STATA, QGIS, VBA, and/or other appropriate analytic software programs.   The ideal candidate will have experience in survey design and related software such as RedCap.  Furthermore, this Associate Researcher will participate in meetings with external stakeholders and write sections of research results for funders and publications. 

Chapin Hall embraces a “Work from Anywhere” approach which offers flexible remote work from anywhere in the United States. Chapin Hall also offers in-person opportunities for staff to build: 1) connections, 2) team cohesion and creativity, and 3) a sense of belonging to the organization. All staff are expected to travel to and engage in a minimum of two annual 2-day “All Hall Convenings” featuring shared learning, teamwork, and fellowship. Reasonable accommodations are made for those who require modifications.

POSITION TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Using R, Python, SQL/PostgreSQL, QGIS, STATA ,VBA, and/or other appropriate analytic software programs, independently converts, merges, and assembles large-scale administrative data that often needs to be cleaned for analysis for multiple projects.
• Develops and maintains scripts that transform administrative data into analyzable formats that can be utilized for data analysis, with a strong emphasis on reproducibility and clear documentation.
• Automates existing and emerging processes for importing, documenting, integrating, and updating data and follows coding best practices such as code review, version control, and documentation.
• Provides support to Data Engineer to maintain ETL pipeline, conducts code reviews of pipeline scripts and other tasks as needed.
• Performs modeling, complex statistical analyses, and visualizations under supervision.
• Participates in discussions regarding study design and methods. Assists in developing study objectives, and designing sampling, randomization, and data collection procedures to achieve study objectives.
• Participates in qualitative research, including focus groups and surveys.  Assists in survey design, constructing survey tools in RedCap or equivalent software, and manages, analyzes, and visualizes the results of surveys.
• Writes sections of research results for funders and/or publications, and assists with report production activities, including proofing, formatting, and creating tables and graphs.
• Manages competing priorities and requests from multiple team members and client partners and prioritizes appropriately.
• Participates in meetings with external stakeholders and may present findings at meetings and/or conferences.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

• A master’s degree in data science, biostatistics, computer science, econometrics, statistics, or social science/policy with demonstrated experience in applied research and evaluation using public sector administrative data; or, a relevant bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience required. 
• Experience designing and implementing quantitative and qualitative research projects, supporting continuous quality improvement, and utilizing client policy documents and developing relationships with client subject matter experts for accurate and effective coding.
• Experience with R, Python, SQL/PostgreSQL, STATA, QGIS, and/or other appropriate programming languages.
• Experience in RedCap or similar survey software.
• Experience in GIT.
• Strong background in statistical methodology.
• Experience in a collegial and collaborative environment including concurrent contributions to multiple project teams and content areas with appropriate technical skills.
• Ability to translate and convey research findings and complex concepts in oral, written and visualizations with an emphasis on plain language and evidence translation.             
• Works collaboratively with colleagues across policy, research, and administration to share information, responsibility, and resources.
• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.
• Demonstrated judgment and discretion in the handling of sensitive information
   

MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to operate a computer extensively for four (4) or more hours per day.
• Must be able to travel locally and out of state occasionally.

Pre-employment background checks are required for all Chapin Hall positions. Chapin Hall approaches background checks with respect and fairness, ensuring that every applicant is given equitable review and opportunity. Chapin Hall’s background check process complies with Section 2-103.1 of the Illinois Human Rights Act. Accordingly, a conviction will only be considered disqualifying if it has a substantial relationship to the job, or if hiring the individual would pose an unreasonable risk to workplace safety. If you have any questions, please reach out to HumanResources@chapinhall.org.

Formal expressions of interest are accepted online only. A cover letter, resume, writing sample, and reference contact information are required to be considered for this position. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should contact Human Resources by calling (773) 256-5157, or by sending an email to recruiting@chapinhall.org.

Chapin Hall is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer that values and actively seeks diversity in its workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, citizenship status, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, status as an individual with disability, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Per U.S. Department of Labor regulations, Chapin Hall offers visa sponsorship in limited instances for hard-to-fill specialty occupation roles. If you have questions about visa sponsorship at Chapin Hall, please reach out to humanresources@chapinhall.org

Regarding the salary range:

Chapin Hall adheres to a competitive market-aligned salary structure for all its administrative, policy, and research roles. Starting salaries within posted ranges are determined by the Chapin Hall Human Resources Department using a consistent, rigorous, and equitable review process.

Benefits

Chapin Hall provides a strong benefits program that addresses the diverse needs of our staff. The Chapin Hall Benefits Program offers competitive and comprehensive benefit options that allow you to design your own plan, to balance individual needs with affordability and support long-term financial stability for staff and their family. Our benefits include comprehensive health plans, paid time off, sick time, parental leave and retirement options. For more information on our benefits visit our Chapin Hall Website.