Data Scientist

Education | Éducation; Toronto; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Part time

Job summary

A provincial education agency in Ontario is hiring a Data Scientist to lead data-driven change. You will implement innovative data science solutions to enhance decision-making and support provincial assessment reporting. The ideal candidate has proficiency in data science programming and analytics, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with diverse teams. This temporary position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for continuous learning.

Qualifications

• Experience applying best practices in data science and analytics.
• Ability to lead projects independently while delivering results.
• Understanding the mathematical foundations of common data science approaches.

Responsibilities

• Train and deploy statistical and machine learning models.
• Conduct exploratory and predictive analyses on complex data.
• Create compelling data visualizations for decision-making.

Skills

Data science programming languages (Python, R, Scala)

Data querying languages (SQL, Hive, Cypher)

Statistical modeling and evidence-informed decision-making

Data visualization

Problem-solving skills

Strong consultation and networking skills

Tools

Databricks

Job description

Overview

Lead data-driven change as a Data Scientist for Education | Éducation. Join to apply for the Data Scientist role and help shape provincial assessment reporting, inform policy and program decisions, and support strategic planning across the agency.

About EQAO

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) is an arm's length government agency of the Ministry of Education. EQAO contributes to the continuous improvement of Ontario's publicly funded education system. The agency creates and delivers engaging and relevant online, curriculum-based large-scale assessments for students that lead to further insights and information needed to support student learning and improve outcomes.

About the job

As a Data Scientist, you will collaborate with colleagues across the agency to lead, implement and deliver innovative data science solutions. Your day-to-day tasks will include:

• Training, deploying, and maintaining statistical and machine learning models in production environments.
• Conducting exploratory, inferential, and predictive analyses on complex data assets.
• Identifying relevant features and variables to enhance machine-learning model performance.
• Designing and implementing data pipelines to collect and preprocess data from various sources.
• Creating compelling data visualizations and communication tools to support informed decision-making.
• Collaborating with agency colleagues to deliver integrated data, analytics, and data science services.

We believe in continuous learning and offer an environment where you can grow and apply new skills.

What you bring to the team

Technical Knowledge and Expertise :

• Experience applying theories, principles and best practices in data science and advanced analytics, data modelling, data mining, statistical modelling, and evidence-informed decision-making.
• Proficiency in data science programming languages (e.g., Python, R, Scala) and data querying languages (e.g., SQL, Hive, Cypher) to load, prepare and use high-volume data assets for reporting, analysis and model development.
• Knowledge of data / database management principles and best practices for working with structured and unstructured data assets, including process data.
• Familiarity with cloud environments and web-based analytics platforms (e.g., Databricks).

Leadership and Project Management Skills :

• Ability to lead projects independently and ensure timely delivery of results.
• Ability to provide technical direction and guide colleagues, while ensuring timely delivery and implementation of new initiatives, processes and solutions.
• Experience working on projects with diverse teams, external partners and competing priorities.

Analytical Knowledge and Expertise :

• Experience with descriptive, exploratory, inferential, and predictive analytics.
• Understanding of the mathematical foundations of common data science model approaches.
• The ability to synthesize insights from diverse data sources with strong attention to detail.
• The ability to learn public sector policy and program research, development and analysis principles.

Communication, Consultation and Negotiation Skills :

• Experience in data storytelling through dashboards, briefings, reports, and slide decks.
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical colleagues.
• Strong consultation, consensus-building, and networking skills.
• Persuasion, influencing, negotiation, and conflict management skills.

Problem Solving and Strategic Thinking Skills :

• Investigate complex problems, challenge assumptions, and make sense of information.
• Think creatively to propose innovative solutions using data mining approaches.
• Ask the right questions, solicit feedback, and iterate to reach meaningful conclusions backed by solid analysis.

Don't meet every qualification?

If you are excited about this position and meet most, but not all, of the listed qualifications, please still consider applying. We recognize that no one person might have every qualification in this job ad, and you just might be the right candidate!

How we support diversity, inclusion and accessibility

We are building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We encourage everyone interested in working with us to apply, including people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black and racialized individuals, as well as people from all ethnicities, cultures, sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.

Our hiring process is accessible, consistent with Ontario's Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. We are working to prevent and remove barriers in our hiring processes and can offer accommodation to address specific needs related to Code-protected grounds such as disability, family status and religion. For more information about accommodation during the hiring process please contact us.

Learn more about the work the OPS is doing to create an inclusive, anti-racist, accessible and diverse workplace :

• diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives
• accessibility
• Anti-Racism Policy

Additional information

Address : 1 English Temporary, duration up to 24 months, 2 Carlton St, Toronto, Toronto Region

Compensation Group : Association of Management, Administrative and Professional Crown Employees of Ontario

Schedule : 6

Category : Information Technology

Posted on : Thursday, July 31, 2025

Note :

• The information that you provide for the purpose of this competition and the results from this competition may be used to fill other positions. These positions may be of various tenures including short-term assignments. Your information and the results from this competition will be retained for the purpose of filling vacancies in accordance with the applicable collective agreement or policy provisions.
• C-EU-232725 / 25

How to apply :

Please apply online, only, at www.ontario.ca / careers, quoting Job ID 232725, by Thursday, September 4, 2025 11:59 pm EDT. Please follow the instructions to submit your application.

If you require accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please contact us at www.gojobs.gov.on.ca / ContactUs.aspx to provide your contact information. The Ontario Public Service is an inclusive employer. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with Ontario’s Human Rights Code.

Seniority level: Not Applicable

Employment type: Temporary

Job function: Information Technology

Industries: Government Administration

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