Research/Data Analyst III

Location: Hinds County, MS

Job Type: Full-Time, Non-State, Time Limited

Pay

$61,416.94 - $94,984.07 Annually

About the Role

This position is within the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Office of Child Nutrition. The Research/Data Analyst III is responsible for creating and submitting multiple reports to a federal reporting system, analyzing data to track trends, and identifying areas of opportunity to increase program effectiveness. Data is primarily extracted from the MDE MARS system.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and improve statewide data systems used for meal counts, claims, eligibility, site operations, and financial reporting.
• Monitor data accuracy from districts and sponsors, identify anomalies, missing data, and reporting inconsistencies, and implement corrective processes.
• Create data collection instruments for administrative reviews, program monitoring, and statewide operational assessments.
• Provide data-driven guidance to districts and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) sponsors on reporting accuracy and performance improvement.
• Prepare reports for USDA, state leadership, legislative bodies, and public transparency.

Requirements

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Benefits

• Health/Prescription Insurance: Eligible employees may select single or family coverage with affordable co-payments.
• Wellness Benefits: Annual benefits for certain services with first-dollar coverage and no deductible.
• Life Insurance: Term life insurance policy with coverage of two times the annual salary (up to $100,000).
• Optional Insurances: Discounted premiums for dental, vision, and cancer insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax spending accounts for childcare and unreimbursed medical expenses.
• Paid Leave: Full-time employees earn approximately 18 days of personal leave and 12 days of sick leave annually. Leave begins accruing after one month of employment.
• Military Leave: 15 days per year for military training.
• Holidays: Up to 10 paid holidays annually.
• Retirement Programs: Defined Benefit/Defined Contribution Retirement Program. Employees vest after 8 years of employment.
• Deferred Compensation: Voluntary retirement savings plan.
• State Credit Union: Special savings and borrowing plans for state employees.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Opportunities for higher education in fields such as medical, nursing, accounting, and business/administrative fields.
• Career Development and Training: Management and administrative certification programs, professional development courses, technical training, and membership in professional organizations.
• Promotional Opportunities: Eligibility for promotional opportunities within state government after 6 months of service.
• Career Ladders: Salary increases based on competency attainment, provided funds are available.