Researcher (Data Engineer)
GENERAL SUMMARY
Chapin Hall is an independent policy research center at the University of Chicago that provides public and private decision-makers with rigorous research and achievable solutions to support them in improving the lives of children, families, and communities. Chapin Hall partners with policymakers, practitioners, and philanthropists at the forefront of research and policy development by applying a unique blend of scientific research, real-world experience, and policy expertise to construct actionable information, practical tools, and, ultimately, positive change for children, youth, and families. Chapin Hall’s unwavering partnership mindset is also demonstrated in its commitment to employees by fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment, at all times, that is committed to reflecting diversity and inclusion in its culture, projects, and workforce. Established in 1985, Chapin Hall's areas of research include child welfare systems, community capacity to support children and families, and youth homelessness. For more information about Chapin Hall, visit www.chapinhall.org or @Chapin_Hall. Also take a moment and view this video clip from various staff regarding why they enjoy working at Chapin Hall.
Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago is seeking an experienced individual to work with a team of researchers and programmers on a variety of applied research projects. This individual will participate in research design and lead the design and implementation of data infrastructure, tools, and pipelines for data transformation that are both appropriate to project needs and accurately reflect the source data systems and their policy contexts.
The position will report directly to Leanne Heaton, Senior Researcher.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The primary responsibilities of the position are as follows:
- Partners with project leaders to understand project and research design data needs and translate those needs into accessible data structures. Collaborates with Research Technology to refine and maintain technical infrastructure supporting these projects.
- Engages external stakeholders, particularly research and computing staff at data providers, to understand the policy and business contexts that shape the data and inform data quality and appropriateness for analytic use.
- Takes a lead role in designing, implementing, and managing complex codebases and technical infrastructure to convert, merge, and/or assemble large data sources for analysis, with a strong emphasis on generalizability and transparency.
- Takes a lead role in establishing data governance structure for all area research and policy analysts. Organizes and standardizes code to be applied across projects.
- Leads development of computational tools, utilities, and processes to streamline and ensure rigor in importing, documenting, integrating, and updating data as well as the implementation of coding best practices such as code review and version control.
- Manages projects or project components involving construction of databases, tools, and/or data pipelines. Together with project leadership, creates project plans that efficiently use organizational resources, including staff and their time. Proactively communicates to stakeholders regarding status of tasks and adapts plans around changing project priorities or data needs.
- Independently prepares sections of research reports, particularly around data preparation and record linkage methodology, and participates in dissemination activities sharing best practices and building capacity to analyze administrative data by researchers, advocates, and the public sector.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
A doctoral degree in public policy, psychology, statistics, education, public health, sociology or another relevant field OR a master’s degree plus a minimum of five years of relevant, post-degree experience required.
Other Qualifications
- Demonstrated mastery of SQL and relational databases including PostgreSQL.
- 3+ years of experience managing and transforming data from complex public sector data systems.
- 3+ years of experience in probabilistic record linkage.
- 3+ years of experience managing spatial data, including advanced knowledge of GIS tools and software.
- Advanced programming skills in Python and/or R (both is preferred).
- Familiarity with version control systems such as Git.
- Familiarity with applied data use in quantitative research and policy analysis.
- Ability to balance many competing demands, as well as to demonstrate good decision-making and initiative.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including in discussing technical concepts with non-technical users.
- Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.
- Demonstrated judgment and discretion in the handling of sensitive information.
MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Chapin Hall is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our staff. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely and follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. During this time travel is suspended.
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.
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Pre-employment background checks are required for all Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago positions.
To express interest in this opening, please visit https://csschcc.sentrichr.com.
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 accommodations to complete the application process should contact Human Resources by calling (773) 256-5157, or by sending an email to humanresources@chapinhall.org.
Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago 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, religion, sex, national origin, status as an individual with disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.