Senior Data Analyst (Planning & Development Officer 3)

    Competition # :  42591   Department:  Community Services Location:  HALIFAX Type of Employment:  Permanent Union Status:  NSGEU - NSPG   Closing Date:  ​ 08-May-24   ​  ( Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time) About Us   At the  Department of Community Services (DCS) , we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services(ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program (DSP).   Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all. About Our Opportunity   Are you a data analysis expert? Are you ready to make your mark and work in a role that makes an impact?  Join us as a Senior Data Analyst and become one of our key team members who help shape the future of DCS policies, programs and services.      Reporting directly to the Director of Data Analytics and Insights, you will engage in comprehensive research, meticulously analyze data options, and formulate well-founded recommendations on a diverse array of intricate issues. Your expertise will be instrumental in conducting demographic, economic, and financial analyses; and informing the development of policies and programs across various social services.   You will lead collaborative initiatives, leveraging multidisciplinary teams to drive strategic investments and foster impactful policy and program development. If you are passionate about utilizing data-driven insights to enact positive change, we invite you to apply! Primary Accountabilities   Your primary responsibilities will include developing comprehensive forecasting models using statistical techniques to address social policy challenges and opportunities across the Department. You will also: ensure that DCS data analytics is informed by an anti-racist, equity lens keep a close eye on social and economic trends within the province and across the country, providing invaluable guidance to senior management on potential policy impacts. collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, translating complex analytical concepts into actionable insights contribute your expertise to strategic and fiscal planning processes, informed by thorough social, economic, and financial analysis evaluate strategic directions, policies, and program options, supported by comprehensive information and data analysis. lead departmental analyses, examining factors affecting social services such as demographics, labour markets, and client utilization trends. facilitate the development of a performance measures framework, ensuring clear goals, measures, targets, and reporting systems are in place across all major departmental programs. Qualifications and Experience   You have completed a related bachelor’s degree (such as computer science, natural sciences, mathematics, or economics) and have at least eight (8) years of related experience in data science, and data analytics; or a related Master’s degree and six (6) years of related experience. An equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered.   You have demonstrated experience with: SQL programming, and python Responding quickly to, and understand, data requests from various sources. Leading complex analytical projects and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Developing and maintaining comprehensive information and data systems. Effectively communicating and presenting complex analytical information.   You must: Be proficient in statistical analysis and forecasting techniques. Think strategically and provide insight into long-term planning and decision-making processes while applying an inclusive and diverse lens. Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. Have strong research skills with the ability to stay updated on social and economic trends within Nova Scotia and across the country, considering diverse perspectives and experiences. Up to date on trends and potential impacts on policies and programs.   We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks. Equivalency   We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to: A completed related diploma and 10 years of related experience 12 years of related experience   Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application. Benefits   Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan , Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees . Working Conditions   Most of your time is spent in a comfortable office setting. Your normal work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day. You may be eligible for a flexible work arrangement including 3-week EDO and work from home 2 days a week (Thursdays & Fridays).  What We Offer   Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career Engaging workplace: our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies Countless career paths Department specific flexible working schedules   Pay Grade:   PR 17    Salary Range:  $3,107.16 - $3,649.33 Bi-Weekly   Employment Equity Statement: Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your electronic application.   This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU). If applying from outside a government office, employees must apply correctly via this link:      Failure to apply correctly means that your application will not be given first consideration as a bargaining unit applicant, and will only be included if external applications are pursued.    External applicants and current casual employees will only be considered if there are no qualified civil service bargaining unit candidates.  PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information.    Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for the interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All questions and concerns may be directed to  Competitions@novascotia.ca.