Research Officer (SOG/ST 6)

Job Purpose

Under the general direction of the Manager, Special Programmes, the Research Officer is responsible for conducting timely and accurate research concerning the department's needs. The incumbent will contribute to the development, implementation and evaluation of research projects. This is executed to generate new knowledge, insights and solutions for exam processes and strategies, which guide the effective planning, policy and operations of the Exams and Assessment Administration Services Branch. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional: 

• Prepares high quality research reports, using innovative and engaging approaches to illustrate findings; 
• Develops research proposals for potential areas of exploration within the Branch;
• Presents research information to stakeholders; 
• Organizes and maintains research databases; 
• Collects, analyses and presents quantitative and qualitative data; 
• Liaises with the Data Management and Systems section to gather quantitative data to aid in research efforts; 
• Participates in the analysis of findings, preparation of reports, summary documents and materials for publication and communication; 
• Prepares research papers and reports, as directed; 
• Designs questionnaires and appropriate research tools to generate insight to guide policies;
• Creates research parameters and goals, using appropriate research methodologies;
• Compiles and analyses data gathered to inform decision-making processes;
• Supports the review and analysis of the Branch’s performance objectives and achievements
• Assists with the preparations of Terms of Reference documents; 
• Co-ordinates research using qualitative, quantitative and appropriate methods, to include Surveys, Interviews, Focus groups, etc.; 
• Submits recommendations, based on findings from research, to aid/improve outcomes from the Department; 
• Ensures research is accurate and valid; 
• Partners with stakeholders to understand the scope of research needs; 
• Supports the development of publication documents based on research conducted. 

Management/Administrative: 

• Participates in meetings and workshops concerning the department's strategic planning and policy agendas; 
• Keeps current with developments in the research and policy development (includes research management, research ethics, and data manipulation); 
• Develops and maintains a database of research conducted; 
• Supports the administration and co-ordination of special programmes, such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), as needed; 
• Performs any other related duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Good oral and written communication skills 
• Good interpersonal skills 
• Ability to exercise initiative 
• Strong presentation skills 
• Excellent time management skills 
• Good strategic thinking abilities 
• Good organizing skills 
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills 

Technical: 

• Good knowledge of relevant statistical software programmes 
• Good knowledge of the Education Act, Code and Regulations 
• Good knowledge of Staff Orders and Public Service Regulations 
• Sound knowledge of current quantitative and qualitative research tools and techniques
• Highly developed research skills 
• Ability to manage and manipulate large sets of data 
• Highly developed quantitative research skills 
• Proficiency in the use of statistical software such as (SPSS) 
• Knowledge of research, monitoring, and evaluation principles and practices
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) 

Minimum Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Public Administration, Social Sciences or equivalent qualifications; 
• Training in Educational Administration would be an asset; 
• Training in research methods; 
• Three (3) years’ experience in a research capacity. 

Special Condition Associated with the Job

• May be required to work beyond normal working hours in order to meet deadlines.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.