Okay, I've searched for entry-level Data Specialist roles in St Louis, MO, that require a Bachelor's degree, full-time schedule, and skills in Python and SQL. I have found 27 positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Data Specialist role is fundamentally designed to support operational decision-making and strategic initiatives by transforming raw data into actionable insights. This position requires balancing technical execution with collaborative problem-solving, as the analyst must extract, synthesize, and validate data from various sources while ensuring data quality and consistent standards. Key responsibilities include building data sets, resolving database issues, and employing tools such as Python, R, SQL, and BI platforms to create meaningful reports and dashboards. While this is an entry-level role (0-2 years experience), it demands a strong foundation in quantitative methods and the ability to communicate complex data findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The candidate will likely face challenges such as managing diverse data sources, troubleshooting data inconsistencies, and adapting automation tools to evolving business needs. Success in this position is measured not only by technical accuracy but also by the capacity to enable stakeholders to make informed decisions through clear, accessible analytics outputs.

Company Analysis:

Premium Retail Services, part of the broader Acosta Group collective, operates within the retail and marketing services industry, positioning itself as a trusted partner facilitating brand growth through innovative sales and merchandising solutions. The company values people first, emphasizing internal development and innovation, suggesting a culture that supports continuous learning and growth—ideal for emerging professionals in data roles. With a sizeable employee base and a broad service offering, this sets the stage for cross-functional collaboration and exposure to various aspects of retail sales and marketing operations. Given Premium’s mission to reshape retail via innovation and excellence, a Data Specialist must align with a fast-paced environment that rewards agility, initiative, and the ability to translate data insights into strategic business value. The role likely sits as an individual contributor within sales or operations analytics and, while entry-level, offers visibility into how data-driven insights feed into larger organizational growth goals.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex data issue. How did you identify the root cause and resolve it?
• Behavioral: Describe a situation where you had to communicate technical data findings to a non-technical audience. How did you ensure clarity and understanding?
• Behavioral: Share an example of a project you managed that required coordinating with multiple stakeholders. How did you balance differing needs and priorities?
• Behavioral: Have you ever implemented a new data standard or automated a process? What approach did you take and what was the outcome?
• Technical: How would you approach extracting and synthesizing data from multiple, possibly inconsistent sources?
• Technical: Which data visualization or BI tools have you used, and how have you leveraged them to create impactful dashboards or reports?
• Technical: Can you walk me through how you would validate data quality and troubleshoot database issues?
• Technical: Give an example of how you've used Python, R, or SQL to automate a repetitive data task or analysis.
• Situational: Imagine a key stakeholder requests a last-minute report based on data that appears inconsistent. How would you handle delivering this request?
• Situational: Suppose during a project you discover your data source has gaps or errors. What steps would you take to address this before reporting the insights?
• Situational: You're asked to support a cross-functional team unfamiliar with data terminology. How would you facilitate their understanding and incorporate their feedback?
• Company Fit: What interests you specifically about working at Premium Retail Services and the Acosta Group?
• Company Fit: How do your personal values and career goals align with a company focused on innovation, internal development, and people-first culture?
• Company Fit: What do you anticipate will be your biggest contribution as a Data Specialist here, given the company’s mission and environment?
• Questions for Interviewer: Can you describe how data analytics integrates with other departments within Premium Retail Services?
• Questions for Interviewer: What are the most important challenges a new Data Specialist must address in their first 6 months?
• Questions for Interviewer: How does the company support continued learning and professional development for employees in data roles?