Data Specialist III

Position Summary

The Happier Life Project (THLP) is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Data Specialist III to join our growing team. This is a senior-level position responsible for leading and managing all aspects of THLP's data collection, analysis, and reporting. The Data Specialist III will play a key role in designing and implementing data systems, ensuring data integrity, conducting advanced statistical analysis, and providing data-driven insights to support program evaluation and strategic decision-making.

The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, experience with data management systems, and a passion for supporting underserved communities through data-informed decision-making. This position will also involve training and mentoring other staff members on data-related best practices, contributing to a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Data System Management

Design, develop, and maintain robust data collection systems and databases to ensure accurate and efficient data entry and retrieval. Oversee data quality control processes, including data cleaning, validation, and error correction, to maintain the integrity of all program data. Ensure compliance with all relevant data privacy and security regulations, including HIPAA, to protect participant confidentiality.

Data Analysis and Reporting

Conduct advanced statistical analysis to evaluate program outcomes, identify trends, and generate actionable insights. Develop and produce comprehensive reports, dashboards, and visualizations to communicate findings to stakeholders, including funders, program staff, and community partners. Prepare data for grant reporting, program evaluation, and research purposes, ensuring that data supports THLP’s strategic goals and funding requirements.

Program Evaluation Support

Collaborate with the Director of Program Evaluation to develop and implement evaluation plans. Provide data-driven recommendations to improve program effectiveness and efficiency. Assist in the development of data collection tools and protocols to support accurate and consistent program evaluation.

Training and Mentorship

Provide training and technical assistance to staff on data collection, entry, and analysis procedures. Mentor and guide junior data staff and interns, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Develop and maintain data-related training materials and resources to ensure consistency and accuracy across the organization.

Collaboration and Communication

Work closely with program staff, community partners, and funders to ensure data needs are met and program goals are supported. Communicate complex data findings in a clear and concise manner to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders. Participate in relevant meetings and conferences to represent THLP’s data and evaluation work.

Grant Support

Assist with the data collection and reporting for grant applications and funder reports. Provide data to support the organization’s claims of program effectiveness, ensuring that all reporting requirements are met accurately and on time.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in statistics, data science, public health, social work, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred. Minimum of five years of experience in data management, analysis, and reporting, preferably in a nonprofit or healthcare setting. Strong proficiency in statistical software such as SPSS, R, or SAS and database management systems like SQL and Access. Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau or Power BI.

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of behavioral health and substance use disorder services is a plus. Experience working with diverse populations, and bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred

Preferred Skills

Experience with electronic health records (EHRs). Experience with grant writing and reporting. Knowledge of community-based research methods.

Cultural Competency

Demonstrated commitment to cultural competency and sensitivity to the needs of diverse populations. Ability to work effectively with individuals from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Strong understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities, particularly Latino, Native American, and BIPOC individuals impacted by substance use disorders and justice involvement.

Performance Expectations

Within 30 Days: Establish a system for tracking program data and performance metrics. Develop a reporting schedule to ensure consistent data updates and communication with stakeholders. Build relationships with program staff to understand data collection needs and challenges.

Within 60 Days: Ensure all data systems are functional and aligned with program goals. Develop templates for regular reporting and data visualization. Create training materials and begin training staff on data-related procedures.

Ongoing: Maintain a consistent schedule of program evaluation and data reporting. Identify and recommend improvements to data collection and analysis processes. Ensure that program outcomes are accurately tracked and communicated to support strategic decision-making.

About The Happier Life Project

The Happier Life Project (THLP) is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed behavioral health services to underserved populations. We focus on supporting Latino, Native American, and BIPOC individuals affected by substance use disorders and justice involvement. Our mission is to reduce health disparities, promote recovery and wellness, and empower individuals to achieve lasting change through peer-led support, advocacy, and education. We are a dynamic, fast-growing nonprofit that values innovation, community-driven impact, and resilience. If you thrive in a high-energy, mission-driven environment where every connection matters, we want you on our team!