Sr Specialist, Human Resources Data Insights

Canadian National Railway Company; Montreal; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading North American railroad company is seeking a Sr Specialist, Human Resources Data Insights in Montreal. This role involves collaborating with HR leaders to identify reporting needs, developing dashboards, and providing data-driven insights to enhance workforce planning. Candidates should have 3–5 years of experience in HR analytics and be proficient in data visualization tools like Power BI. Bilingualism in English and French is essential. Join a company dedicated to safety and community impact.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in HR analytics or business analysis.
• Experience with large datasets and delivering insights.
• Knowledge of data visualization tools like Power BI.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with HR leaders to identify reporting needs.
• Support leaders in identifying insights and trends.
• Develop dashboards and reporting solutions.
• Translate analytical findings into strategic recommendations.
• Communicate insights to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

HR analytics

Data visualization

Communication

Critical thinking

Bilingual (English, French)

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or related field

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

SAP SuccessFactors

Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you’re part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely—helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long‑term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close‑knit, safety‑focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Sr Specialist, Human Resources Data Insights plays a critical role in shaping data‑driven decision‑making across all HR domains. This position is responsible for gathering business requirements for HR metrics and KPIs, translating them into actionable reporting solutions, and delivering insights that support workforce planning, talent management, and organizational performance.

Main Responsibilities

• Collaborate with HR leaders and stakeholders to identify reporting needs and define KPIs and metrics across all HR domains (recruitment, retention, engagement, inclusion, learning, talent management, compensation, etc.).
• Support leaders in identifying insights, trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Collaborate in the development of dashboards and reporting solutions, using tools such as Power BI, to ensure they meet requirements and provide the right data for actionable insights.
• Support managers and colleagues in translating analytical findings into clear, strategic recommendations for leadership.
• Act as a liaison for leaders of other departments than HR to understand data and dashboard systems.
• Facilitate workshops and meetings to capture business requirements and assist in translating them into technical specifications.
• Communicate insights effectively to both technical and non‑technical audiences, enabling informed decision‑making.
• Monitor effectiveness of KPIs and reporting solutions; recommend enhancements aligned with business strategy.

Working Conditions

The role has standard working conditions in an office environment with a regular work week from Monday to Friday. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and manage stress.

Requirements

Experience

Human Resources Operations

• Between 3–5 years in HR analytics or business analysis.
• Experience working with large datasets and delivering actionable insights.
• Knowledge of using data visualization tools to present insights.

Education/Certification/Designation

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Business Analytics, Data Science, or related field.

Competencies

• Knows the business and stays current with industry needs.
• Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders.
• Demonstrates active listening.
• Collaborates with others and shares information.
• Communicates with impact.
• Applies critical thinking & innovates.
• Fluently bilingual, both written and verbal (English, French).

Technical Skills/Knowledge

• Knowledge of data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• General Microsoft computer skills.
• Familiarity with HR information systems (e.g., SAP SuccessFactors, Workday).

Any skills/attributes for these above would be considered an asset.

About CN

CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN’s network connects Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000‑mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

At CN, we are dedicated to building North America’s safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don’t apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don’t meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at [e-mail].

As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

Please monitor your email on a regular basis as communication to applicants is done via email.