Data Analysis Assistant

Reference
1107465

Branch
University of Salford

Start date
09/02/2026

Duration
6 Months

Hours and days
36.25

Dress code
Not Applicable

Rate of pay
£14.87

Holiday rate
£1.79

Role
We are seeking a Data Analysis Assistant, open for University of Salford students, Alumni or Graduates to support evidence-based decision-making across our library collections (books and e-resources). This is a hands-on analytical role, ideal for someone who enjoys working with complex datasets and translating data into clear, actionable insight that supports strategic investment and value-for-money decisions. Working closely with colleagues you will help improve how collections data is analysed, reported, and understood leaving behind robust frameworks and documentation that will continue to add value beyond the life of the contract.

Duties and responsibilities

• Collections Analysis and Insight Analyse e-resource usage data alongside expenditure data to produce cost-per-use and value-for-money assessments.
• Identify trends, risks, and opportunities within collections usage and spend.
• Support evidence-based renewal, cancellation, and reinvestment decisions, including analysis of purchase order and acquisitions data. Reporting and Dashboards Design and deliver clear, user-focused dashboards and reports for internal stakeholders.
• Produce regular and ad hoc analytical briefings for managers Support statutory and sector reporting requirements Data Quality and Frameworks Review and rationalise collections data sources, definitions, and metrics.
• Improve data consistency, documentation, and transparency to support reuse and sustainability. Establish repeatable processes and templates to reduce manual effort and increase efficiency.
• Collaboration and Knowledge Transfer Work closely with colleagues to ensure analysis aligns with operational needs.
• Document methodologies, assumptions, and processes to ensure continuity and knowledge transfer beyond the end of the contract.

Skills and experience

• Experience analysing complex datasets Strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret data and present clear, actionable insights. 
• Advanced Excel skills (e.g. pivot tables, formulas, data modelling). 
• Experience producing reports or dashboards for non-technical audiences. 
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Desirable Experience working with acquisitions or order-level data (e.g. purchase orders, fund codes, vendor data). 
• Familiarity with counter usage data and sector benchmarking. Understanding of value-for-money and cost-per-use analysis. 
• Key Deliverables Agreed collections dashboards and reporting outputs. 
• Cost-per-use and value analyses to support collections decision-making. 
• Improved documentation and data frameworks for collections data. 
• Knowledge transfer materials to ensure continuity after the contract ends. 

Location
University of Salford

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