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Office of Institutional Research and Assessment

Position Overview:

The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (OIRA) is searching for a Graduate Assistant to assist with assessment support activities for UMS TRANSFORMS Student Success and Retention initiatives. This position is for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (OIRA) collects, maintains, and analyzes information that informs decision – and policy – making at the 91����, as well as conducts research on questions of fundamental importance to the institution. OIRA also complies with the reporting requirements of external agencies and, further, responds to special requests for information from the campus community and public.

This position will be dedicated to supporting planning, collection, analysis, and reporting of data needed for the assessment and evaluation of student success and retention initiatives. These system-wide initiatives are part of , a historic $240M commitment made by the Harold Alfond Foundation.

Responsibilities:

The graduate assistant is an important member of our small team and will support the Student Success and Retention Evaluation Specialist, Associate Provost, and faculty members from across the 91���� System with the implementation, analysis, and evaluation of assessment data from these projects. Tasks may include:

• Providing support in developing analysis plans in consultation with lead faculty.
• Developing assessment tools: surveys, rubrics, etc. in consultation with lead faculty and the SSR Assessment Committee.
• Coordinating the implementation of surveys or other assessments.
• Collaborating with the UMS Transforms Evaluation Specialist to incorporate data into a longitudinal database for Student Success & Retention initiatives.
• Developing data reports in various formats, including interactive dashboards, flat file extracts, visualizations, and narrative summaries.
• Conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis to study the results and efficacy of strategies for continuous improvement.
• Performing other reasonably related duties as assigned.

Relevant knowledge and skills:

Quantitative skills and attention to detail are important. Computer experience with Google Suite, Microsoft Office applications (including Excel), and at least one statistical program (e.g., SPSS or R) required.  Other helpful skills include experience with assessment planning, survey design and survey software, data visualization tools (especially Microsoft Power BI), technical writing, and willingness to learn.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is a 9-month academic year position requiring a commitment of 20 hours per week during regular office hours. GAs will work between the months of September through May. GAs may take paid time off during their appointment with supervisor approval. Summer employment may be available as a separate appointment.

• Stipend: $21,000 for Master’s students/ $23,500 for Doctoral students for a 9-month, 20-hour/week appointment, paid on a bi-weekly basis
• Tuition Waiver: Up to 9 credit hours per Fall and Spring semester; up to 6 credit hours for summer employment, if applicable
• Health Insurance: The University pays 65% of the student-only health benefit premium for eligible GAs enrolled in the GA/TA/RA/Fellow health plan. Coverage for one dependent is available at 50% employer contribution
• Dental Insurance: 50% of the individual premium for the Traditional plan design covered by the Employer
• Vision Insurance: Voluntary participation available
• Paid Time Off: 30 hours vacation and 20 hours sick leave for a 9-month appointment
• Holidays: GAs are not required to work on designated UMS holidays
• Employee Assistance Program: Available to GAs and household members
• Retirement Savings: Voluntary participation in UMS retirement plans available

Collective Bargaining Agreement Notice:

This position is covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the 91���� System and UMGWU‑UAW.
Additional information, contact details, and membership materials for UMGWU‑UAW are available at:

Non-Discrimination Statement:

The 91���� System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. 

If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at www.maine.edu/title-ix/.

How to Apply:

Applicants must be admitted to a 91���� graduate degree program (Master or PhD) and enrolled full­-time.

In an email to kimberley.mentus@maine.edu with “UMS TRANSFORMS Assessment GA” as the subject line, please send a current resume or CV, a cover letter detailing your knowledge and skills relevant to this assistantship, and contact information for three references. Priority review of applications will begin on May 13, 2026; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

Note: Any communication regarding this position does not constitute a secured appointment. An appointment is not secured until an official appointment letter is issued and signed by the Graduate Worker.