Data Analytics Specialist

Competition 1203

While this position welcomes applications from the public, please note that preference will be given to current employees at the University of Alberta. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Administrative and Professional Officer Agreement, this full-time continuing position offers a comprehensive benefits package found on our Benefits Overview page and annual salary range of $71,557 to $119,269.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at Enterprise Square.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to more than 14,000 faculty and staff, over 40,000 students and 260,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for Performance, Analytics and Institutional Research

Performance, Analytics and Institutional Research is a dynamic and team centric environment, where client service and teamwork is paramount.

Position 

The Data Analytics Specialist is a key role within the Performance, Analytics & Institutional Research (PAIR) department at the University of Alberta. Reporting to the AVP, Performance, Analytics & Institutional Research, with accountability to the office of the Provost, this position is responsible for managing the architecture of data sets and data products, serving as a subject matter expert to other analysts, and ensuring the quality of work produced by staff analysts. The Data Analytics Specialist plays a crucial support role on key initiatives and projects within the university, with a particular focus on program economics.

As the successful candidate you will:

• Make a difference and have a lasting impact at one of Canada's top universities;
• Have leaders who support your work and professional development;
• Work with a high performing team in a positive and collegial environment;
• Take on challenging projects, develop skills;
• Build close relationships with colleagues and clients within the University.

Duties 

Data Architecture and Quality:

• Manage the architecture, data sets, and artifacts in the IDW as a solutions architect.
• Advise senior analysts to develop designs ensuring data structures support future business needs.
• Architect, design, deliver, test, and troubleshoot complex data implementations.
• Implement data quality initiatives and standards following U of A Data Governance standards.
• Develop standards for all data development phases and review team members’ work to ensure quality.

Reporting:

• Lead reporting and data support for key initiatives.
• Provide guidance and consultation to the analytics user community.
• Key Project Involvement:
• Lead high-profile projects impacting U of A's strategic directions.
• Become an expert in all data sets related to assigned projects.
• Ensure data sets, reports, etc. are thoroughly documented from both a business and technical perspective.

Advisor/Influencer:

• Use personal credibility to persuade leaders and provide well-substantiated arguments.
• Serve as an expert resource to area leadership and lead complex, specialized work.

Strategic Thinker/Organizationally:

• Demonstrate a broad understanding of the internal and external context of the University.
• Proactively identify and interpret information impacting the University's strategic direction.
• Identify new projects/work assignments required due to current or future directions.

Issue Resolver/Analytical Thinker:

• Consider multidimensional problems, develop conceptual frameworks, and evaluate alternative responses.
• Create important information from complex quantitative or qualitative data.
• Integrate analysis and experience into comprehensive responses.

Creative/Flexible Thinker:

• Create new concepts, develop new perspectives, and adapt through change.
• Incorporate aspects of successful solutions from other organizations to create tailored solutions for the University.

Relationship/Linkage Maker:

• Maintain productive relationships and expand networks and partnerships at all levels.
• Maintain a transparent and responsive relationship with clients and stakeholders.

Communicator:

• Use all communication methods effectively, understanding the purpose, audience, and impact needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree or diploma in Computing Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Social Science or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Five to ten years of hands-on experience in data warehouse development, with a focus on Data operations support.
• Proficiency in data modeling and developing cloud-based solutions.
• Proven ability to oversee technical implementations, ensuring adherence to coding standards and effectively resolving technical issues.
• Advanced skills in data visualization using industry-standard BI reporting tools.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Strong time management skills, including accurate estimation of project timelines.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills for internal and external consultations and reports.
• Superior ability to collaborate with colleagues and data specialists to address data quality and selection challenges.
• Equivalencies will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in coaching and mentoring junior team members is considered an asset.
• Master's degree or PhD would be considered an asset