People Strategy, Equity, and Culture

Research Technician

  • Title: Research Technician
  • Class: Classified
  • Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
  • Grade: 22

Job Summary

Performs a wide range of research responsibilities related to college enrollment, student demographics, program profiles etc. Incumbent works with data from a variety of sources, analyzes and catalogs data and uses applications software to create complex, detailed reports and other research documents. Uses web-specific software to develop, design and deliver structure for the IE/Planning web site.

Incumbent interacts with a diverse set of individuals, including administrators, faculty, staff, students, and the public, as well as representatives from external agencies/organizations. Exercises considerable independence and technical control over web-related work product.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Uses applications software to produce IE reports and other materials related to college enrollment, student demographics, staffing, program profiles, and a variety of specialized topics. Troubleshoots and resolves complex data problems to ensure accuracy and integrity of reports.
  2. Independently determines how data will be presented on the IE website.
  3. Researches and responds to requests for information from college staff and the public, while adhering to college policy and departmental guidelines regarding access to, use of and release of confidential information.
  4. Downloads data files from college mainframe and manipulates to produce research reports and dashboards via business analytics software; also collects data from various college departments and external sources to create reports. Creates and maintains PC data bases for reporting purposes, generates reports as needed.
  5. Coordinates special projects (survey administration, focus groups, etc.) related to responsibilities of the department administrator and research analysts to accomplish research objectives.
  6. Designs, develops, and delivers structure for Internet/Intranet web site for Institutional Effectiveness and to support college strategic planning functions. Uses appropriate coding or web-specific software, FTP and other internet protocols to manage the IE/Planning web site.
  7. Documents, tests, implements and maintains web pages and multimedia design using appropriate web publishing, editing and graphics applications; troubleshoots design and technical issues related to web pages. Ensures compliance with site-wide upgrades.
  8. Implements design standards and styles that ensure a high level of design and coding efficiency consistent with current standards, laws, and trends.
  9. Determines best method to archive data and revise current formats. Develops plans for transitioning to target web formats, researching and identifying opportunities to improve systems.
  10. Monitors and reports web statistics and makes recommendations to IE management to improve visibility and usability of web site.
  11. Stays current with technological developments related to web-design tools and acts as technical resource for software. Serves as key contact with ITS to determine and integrate emerging new technologies in support of the needs and goals of the department.
  12. Establishes and maintains an effective records system for IE projects and reports, records and documentation. Maintains an up-to-date procedures manual for the IE office.
  13. Establish the IE department website as a resource for information including maintenance, updating and creating new features and maintaining accuracy of IE department web pages. Compiles, edits and distributes IE-related communications.
  14. Maintains an adequate inventory of office and/or instructional supplies; researches PC hardware and software purchases for the IE department.
  15. Participates on various committees.
  16. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work is generally performed in an office setting. Exposure to video display terminals occurs on a regular basis. Work pressures and disruption of work flow occur frequently; irregularities in work schedule (including extended work hours) may also occur. Required to periodically upgrade skills in order to remain current with changes in technology and software. Learned physical skill is required to operate a computer and other related equipment. Occasional lifting, guiding, and/or carrying of light-weight materials or equipment may be required.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate’s degree with substantial coursework in computer applications or business technology required. Experience performing the duties of the position may substitute for the degree requirement on a year-for-year basis. Two years of work experience performing comparable functions required. Must be proficient to expert using business application software, such as MS Office, and business analytics software, such as Tableau. Must be proficient in web production and in web tool usage and support which includes web design, graphic design, or visual arts. Must be proficient with programming languages such as HTML, Java Script, and Perl and use of web tools such as  Adobe Creative Suite Software.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
  • Web production and design;
  • Graphic Design;
  • Programming languages;
  • Current web design standards, regulations, laws and trends;
Skills in:
  • Mathematics, basic algebra or higher;
  • Analytics;
  • Computer operations;
  • Utilizing formulas in spreadsheets.
Ability to:
  • Work with diverse academic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students and staff;
  • Recognize and resolve technical problems and data irregularities;
  • Communicate technical and complex information both in oral and written form;
  • Effectively plan, organize and prioritize work assignments;
  • Coordinate multiple projects concurrently and work with minimum guidance and direction;
  • Stay ahead of latest developments in technology;
  • Be detail oriented and accurate.

Reviewed: 12/18

  • Rev: 01/2017
  • Replaces: 09/04/07