Job Overview

Job Description

The Managing Data Analyst works with Sunset staff to conduct nonpartisan, objective evaluations of Texas state agencies. The Managing Data Analyst serves two primary roles:

1. Assisting review teams in their evaluation of state agencies by taking a deep dive into an agency's operations, analyzing data and information governance, assessing data quality, and performing various levels of data analysis and
2. Overseeing the work of other data professionals and coordinating data needs across teams conducting agency reviews.

• The Managing Data Analyst also 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.
• The Managing Data Analyst provides one-on-one and group trainings to enhance the skills of others and may provide information and assistance to legislators 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 a coordinated 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.

Responsibilities

Examples of Work Performed

Data Analysis and Visualization

• Prepares data, as necessary, for use by policy analysts or other staff 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 a subject matter expert on data integrity processes, data visualization tool usage, new techniques in data processing and analytics, and best practices.

Coordination and Oversight

• Oversees the successful completion of data projects and tasks by delegating tasks to other data professionals and managing deadlines.
• Coordinates with review teams and ensures collaboration and clear communication to manage multiple data priorities on various timelines.

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 supervising the work of others.
• Experience performing tasks 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.
• Experience working in or for the government sector.

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 analytics software (Excel, SPSS, SAS, Tableau).
• Strong communication 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.
•  Knowledge of data models, database design development, data validation, and segmentation techniques.
• 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 review and oversee the work of others to ensure it meets quality or timeliness standards and to identify coaching or training needs.
• Ability to self-reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve.
• Ability to manage time, set priorities, and handle multiple and sometimes 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.
• Experience applying advanced statistical methods or formulas to analyze and draw conclusions from large or complex datasets.  
• Experience using or implementing project management tools or techniques.
   

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.

About the Organization

Agency Overview

Sunset staff is composed primarily of program evaluation professionals that support the Sunset Commission by performing reviews of state agencies and assisting in the legislative process. The staff work in teams led by project managers and supported by other positions, including data professionals, to conduct independent analyses of state agencies to give the commission an external evaluation of opportunities to better organize and operate state services.

How to Apply

Please visit our website for details on the application process.

Persons with disabilities or who wish to request an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation with the application process may contact the Sunset ADA Coordinator at (512) 463-1300. Individuals using a TTY, VCO, or HCO assistive device may contact Relay Texas at 7-1-1 for assistance in contacting the Sunset Commission by phone. The Sunset Commission will work with anyone making a request to provide reasonable accommodations.