Innovation & Technology Strategy Lead

City of Lancaster (CA); Lancaster (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Lancaster (CA) seeks a Senior Innovation & Technology Analyst to lead citywide initiatives that modernize operations through data, technology, and process improvement. The role partners across departments, supports smart city programs, and frames policies around AI use and data governance.

You will build dashboards, evaluate emerging tools, manage cross‑functional projects, and prepare staff reports for the City Council.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in innovation, technology, data analysis, or public sector strategy.
• Equivalent combination of education and work experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement citywide innovation initiatives aligned with Council priorities and organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities to improve services through technology, automation, and process redesign.
• Support the development and execution of innovation roadmaps and pilot programs.
• Evaluate and deploy emerging technologies (e.g., AI, smart city systems, digital platforms).
• Serve as a liaison between departments, IT, and external vendors on technology projects.
• Monitor industry trends and recommend solutions that enhance service delivery.
• Develop dashboards, metrics, and performance tracking systems.
• Use data analytics to inform decision-making and improve operational outcomes.
• Support open data and transparency initiatives.
• Manage complex, cross-departmental projects from concept through implementation.
• Coordinate pilot programs, procurements, and vendor partnerships.
• Prepare staff reports, presentations, and recommendations for executive leadership and City Council.
• Conduct research on best practices, legislation, and funding opportunities related to innovation and technology.
• Assist in developing policies, standards, and governance frameworks for new technologies (e.g., AI use policies, data governance).
• Build partnerships with universities, startups, regional organizations, and the private sector.
• Support community engagement efforts related to innovation initiatives.
• Represent the City at meetings, conferences, and regional collaborations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication

Cross-department collaboration

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business, Data Science, Information Systems, or related field

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Civic tech platforms

Job description

City of Lancaster (CA) seeks a Senior Innovation & Technology Analyst to lead citywide initiatives that modernize operations through data, technology, and process improvement. The role partners across departments, supports smart city programs, and frames policies around AI use and data governance.

You will build dashboards, evaluate emerging tools, manage cross‑functional projects, and prepare staff reports for the City Council.