Lead Quantitative Researcher (Director of Planning and Research) - TBD at State of South Carolina – West Columbia, South Carolina

The mission of the South Carolina Department of Education is to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community so that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential.

Job Purpose:

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is seeking a Lead Quantitative Researcher to ensure that education research projects utilize rigorous quantitative methodologies appropriate to the research questions and available data. This role requires advanced expertise in statistical analysis as well as the ability to collaborate with research partners to validate methodologies and ensure alignment with project objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of education data, the ability to anticipate potential analytical challenges, and the skill to translate complex findings into meaningful insights. Strong communication abilities are essential as this role involves developing executive summaries, visualizations, and presentations that effectively communicate key research findings to agency leadership, policymakers, and other stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

• Lead Research Design & Analysis – Design and implement research studies evaluating the effectiveness and impact of education policies, programs, and interventions using advanced statistical techniques.
• Ensure Methodological Rigor – Develop and apply sound quantitative methodologies to ensure the validity and reliability of research findings.
• Collaborate with Research Partners – Identify internal pathways and establish external partnerships to facilitate high-quality research projects. Work with partners to align research methodologies and datasets with project objectives.
• Manage Research Timelines – Develop and maintain project timelines, ensuring consistent communication with internal and external stakeholders to keep research projects on schedule.
• Facilitate Data Understanding – Ensure SCDE team members and external partners have a shared and nuanced understanding of datasets and the specific data elements required for research projects.
• Develop Reports & Presentations – Prepare comprehensive reports, executive summaries, data visualizations, and presentations that communicate research findings and recommendations to various audiences, including policymakers and education leaders.
• Conduct Literature Reviews – Stay informed on the latest research in education policy, program evaluation, and data analysis. Conduct literature reviews to align projects with current best practices.

A bachelor's degree and supervisory or managerial experience in a planning, research or statistical setting.

• An advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a quantitative field such as Statistics, Educational Statistics, Economics, Public Policy, Data Analytics, or a related discipline.
• Expertise in quantitative research methodologies, statistical analysis, research design, and handling complex datasets.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Python, Stata, or SAS.
• Strong ability to collaborate with research institutions, agencies, and other partners to develop and implement sound research methodologies.
• Experience conducting program and policy evaluations, analyzing education performance data, and generating actionable insights.
• In-depth knowledge of education data systems, trends, and policy issues is preferred.

As a part of a generous compensation package, we offer comprehensive benefits that include generous paid time off, preeminent health care benefits, professional development opportunities, pension, a 401(k), and a hybrid work schedule with opportunity for remote work.

The South Carolina Department of Education offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs

ONLY THOSE APPLICANTS CHOSEN FOR AN INTERVIEW WILL BE NOTIFIED BY LETTER THAT THE POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED.

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