Jobs

Job Vacancy - Senior Data Analyst

Opening Date: June 11, 2024                

Closing Date: Until filled

Expected Start Date: Two weeks from date of offer

Starting Salary: $90,000 to $105,000

Job Description

A data analyst works with Sunset staff to conduct nonpartisan, objective evaluations of Texas state agencies. As part of Sunset’s evaluation of state government’s efficiency and effectiveness, a data analyst takes a deep dive into an agency’s operations by analyzing data and information governance, assessing data quality, and performing various levels of data analysis. A data analyst evaluates data from other state agencies to provide guidance on Sunset’s future review schedules. A data analyst develops policies and standards that can be applied in state agency reviews relating to data and information governance, data quality, and the use of data for business intelligence and analytics. A data analyst provides one-on-one and group training to enhance the research skills of Sunset policy analysts, including complex quantitative analyses. A data analyst provides information and assistance to legislators and their staff as needed.

This will be a new role for Sunset and the ideal candidate will demonstrate initiative, creativity, critical thinking, and high levels of organization to help design and implement an approach that supports Sunset’s evaluations of state agencies. We are a fun, hard-working team of intellectually curious people who believe in our mission to improve government operations. The Sunset Commission is an equal opportunity employer.

Examples of Work Performed

Data Analysis and Visualization — Cleans and prepares data, as necessary, for use by policy analysts in their work products as well as data visualization. Consults with Sunset staff to understand the business requirements that drive the analysis and design of dashboards and reporting solutions. Collaborates with Sunset staff to analyze and interpret data patterns, analyze data trends and anomalies, understand correlations between data sets, gauge progress toward targets, review performance measures, and provide recommendations for key research findings.

Data Quality — Ensures data integrity by identifying data gaps, errors, anomalies, inconsistencies, and redundancies in the content, structure, and relationships within data; coordinates with other agencies to improve data quality. Identifies and interprets data patterns and trends and assesses data quality.

Process Improvement — Makes recommendations to improve efficiency and quality of data and reporting processes. Defines, develops, and helps implement data standards. Makes recommendations on revisions to data collection methodologies. Provides routine updates on the status of projects and initiatives. Trains others and serves as subject matter expert on data integrity processes, data visualization tool usage, new techniques in data processing and analytics, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience 

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in data analytics, data science, business analytics, statistics, or a related field. 
• A minimum of three years of work experience related to data analysis, research, compilation, and/or reporting work.
• Experience requiring technical competence in research design, statistical modeling, and causal inference.
• Experience involving high-level data analysis and data management skills, including working with very large data sets. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of data analysis techniques. Knowledge of scientific research methods, statistical techniques, mathematics, geographical concepts and their application to data analytics.
• Strong skills in the use of a computer and applicable software (SPSS, SAS, Tableau). 
• Strong communications skills, both oral and written, to communicate technical information in a non-technical and easy-to-understand manner. 
• Ability to synthesize information and data, identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and develop effective solutions supported by evidence; to develop and evaluate policies and procedures; to prepare reports.
• Ability to develop and interpret statistical data charts, maps, and tables.
• Ability to interpret and publish data analytic findings.
• Ability to maintain detailed and organized documentation of data analytic projects.
• Ability to self-reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve.
• Ability to manage time, set priorities, and handle changing priorities in a positive and patient manner.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team by practicing active listening and constructive communication; and sharing information, knowledge, and experience. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Advanced degree in research methods, economics, public policy, program evaluation, statistics, data science, or other quantitative social science discipline.
• At least five years of experience related to data analysis, research, compilation, and/or reporting work in at least one policy-related area.
• Experience with survey design, sampling, and administration.

Benefits

• State of Texas benefits package, including health insurance, employer-matched retirement plan, and paid vacation and sick leave. Dental, vision, and disability insurance; health and dependent care savings accounts; 401(K); and an employee assistance program are also available. 
• Small, professional office located in the Capitol Complex in downtown Austin with parking. 
• Hybrid remote work based on needs of job. 
• Merit increases, bonuses, and opportunities to advance based on individual performance and initiative. 
• Emphasis on professional development, both through in-house training and opportunities to attend external training sessions, workshops, and seminars.
• $2,000 relocation bonus for new hires residing 250 miles or more from Austin, TX

How to Apply

Our initial application process has two steps. Please read the following instructions carefully before you begin the process.

Step 1

Please submit the following documents to sunset@sunset.texas.gov in Word or PDF format.

1. State of Texas application
2. Your resume 
3. Three references with email addresses and phone numbers

If you do not provide all three documents, your application will not be considered further. Please do not submit a cover letter.

Step 2

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements (bachelor’s degree and 3 years of related experience) will receive a confirmation email containing three questions designed to assess their interest in Sunset and critical thinking skills. You will receive the email within one business day of submitting the documents required under Step 1. Please be sure to check your spam folder for any correspondence from Sunset.

To be considered further, you must submit your responses to the three questions within 48 hours of the email timestamp. Please do not start the application process unless you will have time to answer the questions within the required timeframe. Once submitted, you will not be allowed to revise your responses.

What Happens Next?

A selection committee of Sunset staff will evaluate and score the responses. Based on their qualifications and responses, selected applicants will then be interviewed and undergo a background check.

Hiring Schedule

Sunset typically posts job announcements during the summer after a legislative session (odd-numbered years). However, hiring for Policy Analysts occasionally occurs at other times. Hiring for administrative staff is on an as-needed basis. Information about upcoming hiring and all job postings will be on this page and Work in Texas as soon as available. Please check back regularly.

Policy Analyst Description

Policy Analysts work in teams to review and evaluate the operations of Texas state agencies. Key job duties include developing background research, participating in interviews, analyzing policy and program issues, and developing recommendations to improve agencies under review. Experience in or knowledge of state government and the legislative process, and Masters-level education are preferred.