Data Analyst

University-of-Waterlo; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 74,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Waterloo is seeking a Data Analyst to advance the Faculty of Mathematics’ data use for decision-making and operational efficiency. You will consolidate data from multiple information systems and design data solutions for diverse clients within the Faculty.

The role requires 3+ years in data analytics, a related degree, and strong SQL, Python or R skills with experience in data visualization and ETL. Familiarity with Power BI or Microsoft Fabric is an asset.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience in data management, analytics, statistics and predictive modelling.
• Proven ability to write SQL queries and to use SQL or other tools to extract, transform and load data for analysis.
• Proven ability to use Python or R for data analysis and visualization; ability to automate tasks.

Responsibilities

• Manage data accuracy, integrity, confidentiality and sharing in line with privacy principles.
• Develop dashboards, reports and visualizations to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Design dimensional models and analytics solutions across subjects.
• Communicate findings to varied stakeholders and provide data-driven recommendations.

Skills

SQL

Python

R

Data visualization

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Statistics/Data Science

Tools

Power BI

Microsoft Fabric

Job description

About the University

At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day. Learn more about our recruitment process.

Job Details

Hiring Range: $73,695.42 - $92,119.28

Time Type: Full time

Term: 2 years

This position is being offered as a Secondment or contract opportunity.

Primary Purpose

The Data Analyst will advance the Faculty of Mathematics’ use and integration of data to inform decision-making and improve operational efficiency. The Data Analyst is responsible for understanding, consolidating and analyzing data about the Faculty of Mathematics and for effectively communicating analyses and findings. The Data Analyst will maintain a robust understanding of data systems and of University and Faculty policies and practices to be able to understand the needs of a variety of clients across the Faculty and to design and develop effective data solutions.

Key Accountabilities

Data Management

• Ensure Faculty data is accurate, consistent, properly maintained and shared in compliance with relevant privacy protection, confidentiality and other ethical principles.
• Identify and address data integrity/reliability issues and use data cleaning processes to achieve required data quality standards and identify data anomalies and discrepancies to appropriate institutional data stewards.
• Understand the available data, systems, dictionaries, and distribution channels from multiple information systems across the University and involving multiple domains.
• Execute and develop new Python scripts that enable data-informed operational processes for Faculty service units.
• Design and implement dimensional models across multiple subject areas for analytics solutioning.
• Create and maintain documentation as needed.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Independently work with varied clients to identify, clarify, and fully understand their questions or problems, determine appropriate analytical approaches, and develop effective data solutions
• Develop and apply deep understanding of University and Faculty policies, procedures, and guidelines (including but not limited to undergraduate studies regulations) to solution design and analysis.
• Analyze data using advanced statistical techniques (regression, clustering, decision trees etc.) to gain insights.
• Independently develop and apply reliable forecasting, predictive, and “what-if” models to address business questions and inform and support planning, evaluation, and budgeting processes.
• Assess and determine the appropriateness of machine learning algorithms, and other techniques to address business problems and optimize data solutions.
• Develop reports and relevant data visualizations (including dashboards, graphs and presentations and web applications) to inform evidence-based decision-making in the Faculty.
• Maintain Faculty-wide business intelligence reporting, ensuring consistent quality control practices and most recent data available.
• Develop queries using efficient SQL, applying expert understanding of databases and sound judgment of business requirements.

Communication

• Provide advice and recommendations based on data analysis, modelling, and interpretation of risks and opportunities
• Communicate findings, recommendations, and data through reports, presentations, and visual analytics to support evidence-based decision-making
• Research new tools, systems, and practices to recommend improvements across all domains of the role.
• Understand the needs of each stakeholder group in order to assess and scope projects fully and to make recommendations on timelines and priorities for each.
• Communicate effectively with multiple, varied clients (senior leadership, faculty members, and staff) to understand needs, scope projects and project terms, update progress, and present findings.
• Ensure data and information is placed into the proper context by combining university data with both qualitative and quantitative environmental/external data and appropriate narrative.

Required Qualifications

Education

Degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, data science, economics , or another related discipline is required. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience

3+ years’ experience in work related to data management, data analytics, statistical analyses and predictive modelling.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Proven ability to write SQL queries and to use SQL or other tools to extract, transform and load data for analysis.
• Proven ability to use R, Python, or equivalent for data analysis and visualization.
• Proven ability to use Python or another scripting language to automate tasks.
• Knowledge of statistical packages, ETL methods, and visual analytics.
• Demonstrated ability to streamline and automate processes.
• Critical thinking skills and a natural curiosity to understand processes and data relationships.
• Strong interpersonal, visual, and technical written communications skills.
• Effective collaborator, able to work with a variety of technical and non-technical roles across teams.
• Strong stakeholder management and prioritization skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Fabric or Power BI would be an asset.
• Knowledge of postsecondary education data domains or student data systems would be an asset.

Equity Statement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is coordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+. Positions are open to qualified candidates who are legally entitled to work in Canada.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources [e-mail] or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.

At the University of Waterloo, we think differently, we act with purpose, and we work together. We advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research, and scholarship, nationally and internationally, in an environment of free expression and enquiry. We are a leading global research-intensive university, renowned for entrepreneurship and innovation, providing co-op and work-integrated learning at scale with impact.