Data Analyst/Database Manager – National Foundation for Educational Research – Slough, South East England

We are seeking to appoint a Data Analyst/Database Manager to join our Data Protection Group (DPG).

NFER is a leading independent provider of research, assessment and information services for education, making a difference to learners of all ages by helping improve practice and understanding. DPG is a specialist group in our Research & Product Operations (RPO) Department; the group provides technical expertise including data management, developing online surveys, web-based reporting and database and panel management supporting many of NFER’s varied programmes of work.

As well as undertaking data management work, DPG frequently takes the lead in implementing new technology.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

Manipulating and cleaning data, primarily using SPSS, using data from a variety of sources, including SQL Server and Access databases and Excel spreadsheets
Developing online surveys and other online data collection tools for research projects
Producing tabulations and web based dashboard reports
Assisting with the maintenance of the NFER’s Register of Schools database of educational establishments in the UK
Helping to manage panels and databases of survey participants
Liaising with staff throughout the Foundation about timetables and requirements for projects
Assisting with implementing and promoting new technology throughout NFER; currently DPG is leading the implementation of a web-based data analysis tool, and investigating new data matching techniques and tools for web-based marking and coding of tests and questionnaires
Assisting with the administration of surveys or data collections when required.

The successful candidate for this post will have a good degree in an IT, numerical or research methods subject and will be able to demonstrate the following essential requirements:

A solid understanding of the principles of manipulating and cleaning datasets, with a good knowledge of the concepts of data quality
Some experience of tabulation and reporting
Experience in maintaining databases and querying data
Experience of programming in any computer language e.g. Java, .NET, Perl, Python or Visual Basic
An ability to learn how to use different technologies
A flexible approach to work and good organisational skills as the job involves juggling a range of different tasks at once, all to high standards and tight deadlines
The ability to work as part of a team
Good interpersonal and written communication skills, as the work involves liaison with other staff at NFER.

Other desirable skills and attributes include:

Strong knowledge of Excel, macro building and visual basic
Ability to use SPSS syntax or similar for data management
Experience of querying and manipulating databases using SQL
Experience in setting up online surveys
Knowledge of web application development, ideally with ASP or ASP.NET
Knowledge of the education system in the UK, possibly with teaching experience
Experience in line management

If you match our brief and are interested in this super opportunity, please click on APPLY NOW below to download the full job description, application form and equal opportunities summary. Then please send your completed application form to hr@nfer.ac.uk. Please note, an application form and equal opportunities form must be completed (CVs can also be attached).

Applicants for this post should note that it is exempt from the ‘Rehabilitation of Offenders Act’; further details of NFER’s Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checking procedure are in the attached Further Particulars for this post.

Closing Date: Wednesday 25 March 2015
Interviews: w/c 30 March 2015

NFER is an equal opportunity employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community.

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