Research Manager

The Department of Education and Vocational Training (DEF) and its General Secretariat (SG) are seeking a Research Manager to work within the Research Unit for the Management of Educational Systems (URSP).

Attached to the Directorate for Evaluation and Educational Planning (DEPE), the URSP is mandated for educational research projects that shed light on the functioning of the training system and the challenges of education in Vaud. Through its research activities, it provides support for the management of the school system and contributes to establishing a critical perspective useful to all school partners. It develops indicators and statistics for Vaud schools.

For more information, you can consult the terms of reference or contact Mrs Laure Dessemontet, DEPE Director, at 021 316 31 63.

Possibility to work one day per week remotely.

Fixed-term contract 80% for 2 years, renewable three times, for a maximum total duration of 6 years.

Within the scope of these duties, you will be expected to:

• Develop and conduct studies and research projects in education;

• Collaborate on educational research projects at cantonal, inter-cantonal, national and international levels;

• Conduct evaluations of the training system or departmental projects;

• Provide information and advice, carry out expert assessments and participate in working groups;

• Contribute to the management of training policies;

• Develop and publish management indicators for the department, notably in HR and finance;

• Perform quantitative statistical analyses in various fields of educational sciences.

Also to:

• Manage data files from the department's school databases (or other external databases), ensure data quality control, propose improvements in this area (acquisition, standardisation, exploitation);

• Contribute to the design and management of databases as well as their development;

• Support the department's work related to the evolution of the information system of the Vaud educational system;

• Ensure the quality of school census data transmitted to the cantonal and federal statistical offices.

The person sought must demonstrate autonomy, interpersonal skills, stress resistance and technical and scientific know-how. Furthermore, they must have proven analytical and abstract thinking abilities as well as strong interpersonal skills (listening, negotiation, communication). A dual competence in research and statistical management, and a strong interest in these two areas, are necessary for this position.

Desired profile

• Master's degree in social sciences, humanities or educational sciences or an equivalent qualification;
• Good knowledge of the Vaud training system and public administration;
• At least 5 years of prior experience in scientific research, preferably in education;
• Strong skills in statistical analysis and quantitative methods, knowledge of qualitative methods is an asset;
• Proven expertise in IT, particularly in data analysis, big data, database management and information systems in general. Proficiency in common software in this field (RStudio, MS Excel and Tableau);

Skills

• Analytical, synthesis, coordination and adaptability skills;
• Good listening, negotiation and communication skills;
• Excellent written and oral expression skills in French;
• Proficiency in German would be a major asset within the team;

• Ability to work in an organised, methodical and autonomous manner;

• Proactive attitude and excellent ability to collaborate and work in a team;
• Accomplished communication skills.

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