Research Scientist II

If you’re passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country—and you’re committed to working hard to play your part in building that future—consider WGU as the next step in your career.

Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders. Whatever your role, working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate, creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.

The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

At WGU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:
 

Grade: Technical 407

Pay Range: $105,600.00 - $158,400.00

Job Description

The Research Scientist II plays a critical role in WGU Academy’s culture of data-driven continuous improvement. This role is ideal for a curious, skeptical, and technically skilled researcher who thrives on asking strong questions, validating ideas with evidence, and translating insights into action. As a Research Scientist II, you will collaborate closely with teammates and internal clients, and contribute research that directly informs decision-making and innovation across the Academy.

 

What You’ll Do

• Independently execute research projects, aligned with Academy goals and initiatives

• Select and apply appropriate research methodologies such as implementation studies, qualitative research, secondary data analysis, quasi-experimental designs, and randomized controlled trials

• Collect, combine, and clean data from multiple sources to ensure accuracy and usability

• Analyze data using statistical software and advanced quantitative and qualitative techniques

• Design, deploy, and analyze surveys using tools such as Qualtrics

• Produce high-quality, client-facing reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings and recommendations

• Represent WGU Academy by presenting research at relevant conferences and company gatherings

What You’ll Bring

• Ability to independently define, design, and conduct original scientific research

• Strong data manipulation skills using programming languages such as SQL and Python

• Data visualization experience using tools such as Python and Tableau

• Expertise in qualitative and quantitative primary research methods

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional research teams

• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills

• Exceptional ability to translate complex research findings for both lay and scholarly audiences

• Strong attention to detail with pride and ownership over research quality and outcomes

Bonus Points

• Experience working in education technology or a related field

• UX testing experience

• Master’s degree in a related field such as Social Sciences, Marketing, Statistics, or a closely related discipline

Experience in Lieu of Education

Education may substitute for years of experience.

What to Expect

At WGU, our mission drives everything we do, including how we hire. Our interview experience is designed to give qualified candidates the opportunity to show their best work through meaningful conversations and collaboration.
We thoughtfully review every application and invite forward the candidates whose experience and potential best align with the role and our mission.

Interview Steps

• Introductory call

• Hiring manager interview

• Short project

Work Location

This is a full-time, in-office position at WGU’s office in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Visa Sponsorship

While we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, WGU is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

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Position & Application Details

Full-Time Regular Positions (classified as regular and working 40 st