Position Function:
Oversee the collection, organization, analysis, and maintenance of data for ongoing and new research and programmatic initiatives within MSU Extension Early Childhood Programs.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
Throughout its history, Mississippi State University-Extension (MSU-ES) has demonstrated a deep and abiding commitment to programs that directly impact young children and their families. In the past decade, MSU-ES has distinguished itself as Mississippi’s premier infrastructural support of high-quality early childhood education.
Anticipated Appointment Date:
March 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The following examples are intended as illustrations of the types of duties assigned to positions in this classification. The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment.
1. Manage and maintain organizational data systems, including data collection, manipulation, analysis, and reporting using software such as Microsoft Office Suite, SPSS, GIS, and other data management platforms.
2. Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of new data systems to meet emerging program needs and reporting requirements.
3. Create and oversee the submission of programmatic, state, and federal reports.
4. Train staff and stakeholders on data systems, reporting processes, and data integrity practices.
5. Coordinate in-service training opportunities for early childhood staff.
6. Lead complex and time-sensitive projects from planning through execution.
7. Represent the department at conferences, meetings, and events as required.
8. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor's degree with focus in Information systems, Statistics, Data Science, Early Childhood, or related field.
Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Demonstrated experience with data systems relevant to early childhood and family support programs. Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with program administrators, supervisors, and partners.
2. Master’s degree in information systems, Statistics, or other related field.
3. Demonstrated experience with early childhood data systems, such as Teaching Strategies GOLD, or other program reporting platforms.
4. Candidate must be highly proficient in SPSS, Microsoft Office Suite, and GIS.
5. Valid Driver’s License and the ability to travel as required during performance of assigned tasks.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of standard computer programs in addition to statistical packages, ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, and the ability to manage multiple tasks with deadlines.
2. Ability to independently perform high-quality work following well-defined policies and procedures while simultaneously performing in a team environment.
3. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with effective public speaking skills.
4. Knowledge of university, state, or federal reporting procedures.
5. Ability to engage in multiple tasks simultaneously.
6. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
7. Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
8. Employee development and maintenance skills.
9. Ability to supervise and train management staff to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
10. Demonstrated ability to work as a team player.
11. Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• Regularly involves lifting, bending or other physical exertion
• Job requires standing, stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling, and lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Frequent shifts in work priority: interruptions requiring immediate attention; unusual pressure due to accountability for success and project completion
• Frequently requires walking, sitting, reaching, talking, hearing, handling objects with hands
• Ability to see information in print and/or electronically, and ability to distinguish colors
• Ability to travel out of local area. Frequent travel will be required. Must have reliable transportation, use of personal car required.
• Required work outside the standard 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants MUST apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu to be considered for this position.
The following documents and information are required for application:
• Cover Letter
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Contact information for at least three professional references
• Current unofficial transcript (with social security numbers removed prior to submission)
An official transcript will be required if selected for employment.
Screening Date:
March 2, 2026, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
