Behavioral Data Scientist - Community Data Innovation Strategist
Location: Mississippi (Statewide; based in Central Mississippi with travel across SR1 sites)
Department: Educational Technology - Data, Innovation, and Impact
Reports To: Chief Operations Officer - Director of Strategic Initiatives
Position Summary
SR1 is seeking a Behavioral Data Scientist to serve as a Community Data Innovation Strategist-a forward-thinking role combining behavioral science, data analytics, and community-centered strategy. This individual will help drive meaningful progress across education, agriculture, health, and community development throughout Mississippi.
This is not a traditional analyst role. We're looking for someone who understands people, not just numbers-an analytical thinker who uses behavioral insight and data to expand opportunity, inform decision-making, and improve lives.
You will work within SR1's C.O.O.L. Zones, SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy (CPSA), and across agriculture and health-related projects, designing systems that connect community behavior and engagement with measurable outcomes and long-term impact.
Key Responsibilities
Turn Behavior into Actionable Strategy
- Build behavioral models and community indicators to strengthen programs in education, workforce development, health, and agriculture.
- Examine how individual and group behaviors influence outcomes, and suggest strategies for better results and stronger community connections.
Create and Implement Advanced Data Tools
- Develop dashboards, metrics, and predictive models using Python, R, Power BI, Tableau, or Looker Studio.
- Blend qualitative and quantitative insights to guide leaders and teams with clear, data-informed stories.
Lead a Cross-Sector Data System
- Design and manage data pipelines that track participation and impact across SR1's focus areas.
- Build responsive feedback systems that help programs adjust in Real Time to community needs and behavioral trends.
Build Skills Across Teams
- Develop and lead workshops that help SR1 staff, educators, and partners use data confidently and effectively in their work.
Promote Fair Access and Community Advancement
- Use behavioral frameworks to identify and address systemic gaps in access to education, health, and opportunity.
- Design data approaches that reflect the needs and strengths of the populations SR1 serves.
Innovate and Stay Ahead
- Keep current on research in behavioral science, applied analytics, and responsible data practices.
- Bring forward new ideas and solutions that support SR1's mission to advance well-being and lifelong opportunity for Mississippi communities.
Qualifications
Required Skills & Experience
- 3-5+ years of experience in data science, behavioral analytics, impact evaluation, or similar fields.
- Proficiency in at least one statistical or programming language (eg, Python, R, SQL).
- Expertise with visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or Looker Studio.
- Experience using data to inform real-world program or policy decisions.
- Educational or professional background in psychology, education, sociology, public health, or related fields.
- Strong belief in expanding access to learning, health, and economic opportunity.
Preferred (not required)
- Familiarity with education (K-12), health, agriculture, or nonprofit services.
- Knowledge of mapping and spatial tools (eg, ArcGIS, QGIS).
- Exposure to machine learning, predictive analytics, or natural language processing (NLP).
- Ability to work across different cultural or language groups, including Spanish-speaking communities.
What We Offer
- A purpose-driven workplace where innovative thinking is encouraged.
- The chance to directly support families, students, and communities across Mississippi.
- Teamwork across education, agriculture, health, and technology sectors.
- Access to professional development, advanced tools, and thought leadership networks.
- Opportunities to present at events or contribute to publications.
- Competitive salary and benefits.
About SR1
SR1 is a nationally respected nonprofit organization working to expand access to high-quality education, healthcare, and community growth across Mississippi. Programs such as SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy, C.O.O.L. Zones, and SR1Ag.org support individuals from early learning through adulthood with a focus on long-term opportunity and well-being.
Internship Opportunities
We also welcome applications from students and early-career professionals interested in behavioral data, research, or analytics. Interns work alongside SR1 teams on real-world projects that strengthen communities through data-informed decision-making.
To Apply:
Email your resume, cover letter, and any questions to (see below)