Data Scientist (Data Analytics Developer II)

About the role

This is a builder role for someone who likes solving data problems, designing scalable analytics workflows, engineering reliable datasets, and developing analytical products that people use to make decisions. You’ll work across data engineering, business intelligence, analytics, and institutional strategy—partnering with technical and non-technical stakeholders to develop data solutions that improve how SDSU understands enrollment, student outcomes, academic operations, and institutional effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Develop scalable data analytics solutions using modern programming languages and tools, translating stakeholder requirements into effective technical deliverables
• Implement data pipelines, automation processes, and data engineering techniques to optimize institutional workflows and enhance data delivery
• Write, review, and optimize code for data processing, analysis, and visualization to support reporting and decision-making needs
• Design data models, algorithms, and statistical analyses to extract meaningful insights from large and diverse datasets
• Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and integrity through validation processes, quality checks, and adherence to data governance standards
• Maintain clear documentation of data processes, systems, and workflows to support transparency, reproducibility, and compliance
• Troubleshoot data issues and continuously improve data architecture, pipelines, and analytics processes

Requirements

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in a related field and two years of relevant experience. Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Qualifications

• Strong programming skills in SQL, Python, R, or related languages used for data manipulation, transformation, analysis, and automation
• Experience developing scalable data analytics solutions and working with large, complex, and diverse datasets
• Proficiency with business intelligence and data visualization tools such as Tableau and/or AWS QuickSight to develop dashboards, reports, and analytical products
• Working knowledge of data modeling, statistical analysis, data engineering, and data operations principles
• Experience building, maintaining, or supporting data pipelines, including data storage, transformation, integration, and front-end delivery processes
• Knowledge of data quality management, metadata practices, and data governance principles, including data privacy and security protocols
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify trends, investigate data issues, and develop actionable insights
• Ability to communicate technical concepts and analytical findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and contribute to project planning and implementation
• Experience using project management and collaboration tools such as Jira or Trello
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while building effective relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Understanding of higher education reporting conventions, CSU policies, and institutional research standards preferred

Benefits

Compensation and benefits package includes generous time off, retirement, health coverage, education support, and optional offerings. The position is benefits-eligible, permanent/probationary, and approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego. The position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.