Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to David
Heithcock, Human Resources Director at thec.hr@tn.gov. 

Reporting to the Director of Research and Strategy, this position analyzes data, conducts policy
research, and generates knowledge to support the Commission’s role in ensuring that every
Tennessean can earn a credential that leads to lifelong success and a stronger Tennessee.

• Support the Research and Strategy division to analyze, interpret, and empower the use of
data to advance policy and programmatic change in alignment with the Tennessee higher
education master plan and the Commission’s policy and research agenda.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to craft data requests and build
awareness throughout the agency of data systems; utilize database querying skills to
complete routine data requests using THEC’s data systems.
• Transform data analyses to effectively present research findings verbally and in writing
for many audiences, including presentations for other THEC divisions, policy stakeholders,
and external partners.
• Prepare and publish statutorily required reports, like those found here, as well as other
analyses on a range of higher education topics; innovate outputs and streamline data
pulls and analyses to increase efficiency.
• Incorporate information about our internal and external partnerships into reports and
analyses to cultivate awareness, solicit feedback, and effectuate change.
• Analyze data and conduct research to support the programmatic work of other divisions
within our agency; participate in cross-agency committees that standardize the use of
data-connected practices across the agency.
• Support the Research and Strategy division in management of external research projects.
• Maintain and improve personal effectiveness by producing quality and timely outputs;
adapting to changing priorities and demands; and acquiring and applying new skills and
knowledge.
• Assist the Commission with additional day-to-day activities.

Required:
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Two years of experience as a data/research analyst.
• Familiarity with data management, including data management systems like SQL Server,
data analytic principles, and education policy perspectives.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel; proficiency with statistical software packages
like R/R Studio.
• Ability to learn quickly, prioritize tasks, and efficiently manage time.

Preferred:
• Master’s degree.
• Two years of experience as a data/research analyst in higher education.
• Advanced proficiency with SQL Server and R Studio.
• Experience with Tableau or Microsoft Power BI, preferred.

The mission of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission is to build a strong higher education landscape that provides opportunities for all individuals to pursue high-quality education and high-value credentials. In pursuit of this mission, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission is committed to expanding educational access and success for all students by cultivating seamless alignment between all Tennessee institutions, honoring state and student investments in education, and driving Tennessee students, institutions, and communities toward a thriving future. The Research and Strategy Analyst works within the Research and Strategy division which empowers the use of data for policy and programmatic change. Additional information about THEC may be found at www.tn.gov/thec.

This position offers a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental,
life insurance, and paid vacation and holidays.