Senior Research Associate

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met. If you're ready to join the TSTC family and make great memories please complete our application process.Job DescriptionServes as a senior applied research professional responsible for designing, leading, and executing empirical research initiatives that drive institutional effectiveness and strategic decision-making. Independently develops comprehensive research studies using qualitative and quantitative methodologies to inform executive leadership on student experience, employee engagement, instructional effectiveness, and business growth opportunities.Provides expert guidance on research design, data interpretation, and program evaluation while translating complex findings into actionable recommendations that support institutional priorities and continuous improvement.Essential FunctionsThe employee will demonstrate TSTC's Core Values of Excellence, Accountability, Service, and Integrity with internal and external stakeholders, customers, students, and community members.Research Design & LeadershipIndependently design, implement, and lead applied research studies aligned to institutional priorities. Develop integrated research frameworks incorporating qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Identify emerging research needs in collaboration with executive leadership and conduct program evaluations to assess institutional initiatives and recommend improvements.Data Collection & AnalysisDesign and administer surveys, interview protocols, focus groups, and observational tools. Conduct site visits and stakeholder engagements. Perform advanced statistical and qualitative analyses to generate meaningful insights. Ensure data integrity and compliance with FERPA and institutional standards.Strategic CommunicationTranslate research findings into executive-level reports, visualizations, dashboards, and presentations. Communicate complex findings clearly to non-technical audiences. Present research outcomes at institutional meetings and inform strategic planning efforts.Collaboration & Stakeholder EngagementPartner with departments to identify research priorities aligned with institutional goals. Serve as a research consultant to leadership on methodology, design, and interpretation. Foster a culture of data-informed decision-making across the college.Additional DutiesPerform other tasks as required to support organizational goals and strategic initiatives. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Applied Research.Education & ExperienceMinimum QualificationsMaster's degree (preferred) in Institutional Research, Higher Education, Social Sciences, or related field; OR equivalent combination of advanced education and demonstrated applied research expertise.Minimum 3-5 years of progressive experience in applied research, institutional research, or program evaluation. Demonstrated ability to independently design and lead research initiatives from conception through completion. Proven experience conducting rigorous qualitative and quantitative research.Preferred QualificationsExperience in higher education research environments.Experience with advanced data visualization platforms such as Power BI.Experience with survey administration tools such as Qualtrics.Experience presenting research findings to executive leadership teams.Evidence-based experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.Skills and AbilitiesAdvanced knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.Proficiency in statistical software such as SPSS, R, Python, or SAS.Strong data visualization and reporting capabilities.Ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to manage multiple concurrent research initiatives independently.Strong understanding of research ethics, data privacy, and FERPA compliance.Core CompetenciesApplied Research ExpertiseDesigns and executes sophisticated research aligned to institutional priorities.Analytical Rigor & Insight GenerationApplies advanced analytical techniques to generate meaningful, decision-driving insights.Strategic CommunicationEffectively translates complex research findings into actionable recommendations for diverse audiences.Institutional Impact & Continuous ImprovementUses research to evaluate programs, improve effectiveness, and inform long-term strategy.Collaboration & InfluenceBuilds cross-functional partnerships and promotes data-informed decision-making.Professional Integrity & ComplianceMaintains strict adherence to ethical research practices, privacy regulations, and institutional standards.Extra Duties StatementThis job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. It is not intended to include every task or responsibility. Additional duties may be assigned by leadership as needed.Security and Integrity RequirementAs a condition of employment and continued service in this position, which may involve access to sensitive institutional data, the employee must demonstrate the ability to maintain data security and integrity in accordance with institutional policies and applicable state and federal regulations. Employment in this role is contingent upon meeting these security-related qualifications and remaining in compliance throughout employment.Work Environment & Additional InformationThis position is classified as Full Time and exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). It operates in a professional office and academic environment and may require collaboration across campuses. Work is primarily performed using standard office technology and data systems and may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.TSTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, or veteran status.Equal Opportunity EmployerTexas State Technical College (TSTC), as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.Employment Eligibility VerificationIf hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC.Background ChecksA criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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