DATA ANALYST I - Soil Health Assessment Center/Soil & Plant Testing Lab

Soil Health Assessment Center/Soil & Plant Testing Lab

The University of Missouri's Soil and Plant Testing Lab (SPTL) and Soil Health Assessment Center (SHAC) seek a Data Analyst I to support laboratory operations, research, and Extension initiatives. This role involves data management, statistical analysis, reporting, and visualization to ensure high-quality outputs for clients, researchers, and stakeholders.

The initial appointment will be a 60/40 split, 60% (3-day/week) at SHAC and 40% (2-day/week) at SPTL, but this may be adjusted as needed to support lab operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize, clean, and maintain large datasets.
• Ensure data quality control and develop data storage systems.
• Perform statistical analyses and modeling of soil fertility, soil health, and crop performance data.
• Generate reports, summaries, charts, and maps for research and client deliverables.
• Support continuous improvement of lab data workflows and reporting processes.
• Collaborate with team members to meet project deadlines and quality standards.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Proficiency with data analysis software (R, JMP, Python, SAS, Excel).
• Strong skills in data visualization (ggplot2, Tableau, Power BI preferred).
• Knowledge of statistical concepts (regression, ANOVA, normality testing).
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to agricultural sustainability, soil fertility, and nutrient management through innovative data analysis.

Apply today and join our team in advancing soil health research

8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Experience working with agricultural, soil, environmental, or biological datasets.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or database management (Trello).
• Knowledge of soil health indicators (e.g., TOC, POXC, respiration, aggregate stability) and agronomic soil test interpretation.
• Experience with geospatial data (GIS) and mapping software (ArcGIS, QGIS) is a plus.

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $59,737.60 - $84,968.00 annually .
Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-11
University Title: DATA ANALYST I

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page.

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• MU Application
• Cover letter describing your interest and qualifications
• Current resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact information for at least three professional references
  

May 31, 2025

About the Soil and Plant Analysis Lab and Soil Health Assessment Center

The University of Missouri Soil and Plant Testing Lab (SPTL) and Soil Health Assessment Center (SHAC) are state and regional leaders in providing high-quality soil, plant, and environmental testing services. Our mission is to support sustainable agriculture and natural resource management through research, testing services, and Extension outreach. We serve farmers, researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers, offering advanced analytical capabilities and science-based soil and plant health recommendations.
Learn more at:

MU Soil Health Assessment Center

MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.