Sr. Decision Scientist – Academic Affairs and Transformational Partnerships

Join a team that transforms data into decisions—using advanced analytics, AI, and experimentation to unlock opportunity, improve student outcomes, and shape strategy across a mission-driven university. Excelsior University is seeking a Senior Decision Scientist to leverage data science to drive strategic initiatives, improve operational efficiency, and achieve institutional goals. As part of the larger Analytics and Data Science Team, this subunit works with Academic Affairs and Transformational Partnerships who, among other things, are tasked with student success and market demand analytics. A candidate with experience in higher education, student performance, engagement, marketing research, product and portfolio management, and/or demand forecasting is highly desirable. Reporting to the Director of Analytics and Data Science, the decision scientist will collaborate closely with business partners in Academic Affairs and Transformational Partnerships. The role will be responsible for using machine learning, predictive modeling, experimental design, and other analytical techniques to inform strategic decisions and identify opportunities for efficiency and growth. This remote position gives you the opportunity to lead innovative projects and support Excelsior’s mission of serving adult learners, with an emphasis on those historically underrepresented in higher education. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise, intellectual curiosity, and strong communication skills to drive impact in a higher education environment. We believe work should fit your life, not the other way around. While it is preferred that team members be located in Albany, New York, or a nearby area, remote work options will be considered. Our hybrid schedule has you in the Albany office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with the flexibility to work from home on other days. Spend less time commuting and more time focusing on meaningful work or personal priorities. Core hours are 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, including a 1-hour lunch, for a 37.5-hour week. Duties and Responsibilities include the following: Demonstrated knowledge and application of data analysis and statistical modeling, preferably in an academic, educational, or marketing setting. Ability to design, analyze and model business opportunities and processes. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R Strong understanding of database systems and data manipulation techniques Proficiency with relational databases and SQL Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex analytical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with academic and business leaders. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for improvement. Strong attention to detail, thoroughness, and follow through. Ability to work independently and meet deadlines. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks. Ability to work cross-functionally and collaboratively. Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, psychology, business analytics, statistics, economics, data science, or other research-based quantitative or empirical field; Masters or Doctoral level education in quantitative analysis is preferred. Five or more years of relevant experience. Experience with market research, demand forecasting, and other techniques to expand our institution and program offerings is preferred. Knowledge of business modeling and business analysis to develop and maintain cost allocation and return on investment (ROI) models. Familiarity with Lightcast is preferred. Experience with GenAI or LLMs is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and application of data analysis and statistical modeling, preferably in an academic, educational, or marketing setting. Ability to design, analyze and model business opportunities and processes. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R Strong understanding of database systems and data manipulation techniques Proficiency with relational databases and SQL Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex analytical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with academic and business leaders. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for improvement. Strong attention to detail, thoroughness, and follow through. Ability to work independently and meet deadlines. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks. Ability to work cross-functionally and collaboratively. The hiring salary range for this position is $85,000.00 - $95,000.00. The hiring salary range above represents the University's good faith estimate at the time of posting