Research Analyst

Job Description - Research Analyst )

Turn data into decisions that shape Montana’s future. As a Research Analyst, you will transform complex workforce data into insights that guide businesses, inform policy, and expand opportunities for communities across the state. If you’re driven by curiosity and want your work to make a visible impact, this role delivers.

Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity.

It's about the people and the impact we make in our communities every day. We are proud of our open, team-based, supportive, and collaborative work environments. Learn more about DLI here.

The Workforce Services Division produces trusted labor market information that helps Montana’s economy thrive. As the Research Analyst, you will be a key contributor to the state’s Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, supporting survey design, data collection, analysis, and publication. You will serve as the subject matter expert and partner with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to ensure high-quality, reliable data about Montana’s labor market.

Your work directly informs decisions made by employers, educators, policymakers, and workforce partners across the state. This is a hands-on role where your analysis drives real-world outcomes and long-term workforce strategy.

• Build end-to-end data expertise by managing the full lifecycle of a federally recognized labor market data program, from design through publication.
• Strengthen advanced analytical skills by working with large, complex datasets to identify trends and produce meaningful insights.
• Develop high-impact communication skills by translating technical data into clear reports, dashboards, and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Gain project and program management experience by balancing multiple deadlines, priorities, and federal reporting requirements.
• Expand your professional network by collaborating with federal partners, employers, educators, and workforce leaders across Montana and beyond.
• This full-time role offers the chance to support communities across Montana while enjoying the state’s outdoor recreation, strong sense of community and high quality of life.

• Manage Montana’s OEWS program from start to finish, ensuring data collection, analysis, and reporting meet federal standards and deliver value to stakeholders.
• Design and implement effective surveys and data collection strategies that produce accurate, reliable occupational employment and wage data.
• Analyze complex datasets to identify trends, explain findings, and highlight what the data means for Montana’s workforce and economy.
• Create and publish reports, dashboards, and visualizations that make labor market information clear, accessible, and useful for decision-makers.
• Serve as the state’s OEWS expert by advising partners, answering technical questions, and coordinating with BLS regional and national teams.
• Build strong relationships with employers to support efficient data collection, improve response rates, and reduce reporting burden.
• Manage multiple deadlines and deliverables
  , ensuring timely completion of data products and publications in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain program integrity by documenting methodologies, meeting contractual requirements, and continuously improving processes and outcomes.

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to:

• Data analysis and critical thinking: Ability to analyze and interpret data using critical thinking to assess quality and develop clear, well-supported conclusions.
• Research design and methodology: Knowledge of research design and methodology, with the ability to develop and evaluate data collection processes for accuracy, consistency, and reliability.
• Data storytelling and visualization: Skill in data storytelling and visualization, with the ability to present complex information in a clear, engaging, and actionable manner for diverse audiences.
• Communication and influence: Ability to communicate and influence effectively, including translating technical concepts into plain language and building understanding across…