Research Data Specialist

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

To be successful in this role, you will bring: 

• Bachelor's degree and three years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience. Experience in quantitative discipline such as economic, finance, statistics, or engineering.
• Substantial experience with MS Office and analytical programs such as Python, R, or Stata.
• Excellent writing and analytical skills, particularly in conveying data-driven insights.
• Ability to prioritize workload.

In addition, preferred requirements include:

• Master’s degree or current enrollment in a relevant graduate program.
• 2+ years of experience with cleaning, merging, and reconciling messy, real-world datasets—especially from government or administrative sources (this includes coursework that specifically shows mastery of these skills).
• Familiarity with data governance and best practices in privacy, security, and compliance.
• Experience creating data documentation and technical guides for research or public dissemination.
• Proficiency with version control systems (e.g., Git/GitHub).
• Experience working independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Knowledge of childcare, early education, or labor market policy.
• Experience with data visualization libraries or tools such as Plotly, ggplot2, matplotlib, or R Shiny.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This is a fixed-term position with an end date of one year from date of hire, with possibilities for extension depending on funding and work performance.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the US. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• May be required to work non-standard, extended or weekend hours in support of research work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sitting in place at computer for long periods of time with extensive keyboarding/dexterity.
• Occasionally use a telephone.
• Rarely writing by hand.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a background check prior to working at Stanford University.

This role is open to candidates anywhere in the United States Stanford University has five Regional Pay Structures. The compensation for this position will be based on the location of the successful candidate.

The expected pay range for this position is $75,752 - $95,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/ ) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

We pride ourselves in being a culture that encourages and empowers you. 

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.