Economic Data Scientist

Role Responsibilities

The Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration is seeking an innovative and highly analytical professional to join the Data and Analytics Unit as an Economic Data Scientist. This position plays a key role in supporting economic development and evidence-based policy by leveraging advanced analytics, machine learning, econometrics, and emerging artificial intelligence technologies to generate actionable insights.

Reporting to the Manager, Analytics, the Economic Data Scientist leads complex analytics projects, develops predictive models and data products, and translates sophisticated economic and statistical analysis into meaningful information that supports strategic decision-making across government. The role also supports the implementation of generative AI solutions and advanced analytics tools to improve business processes and policy outcomes.

Responsibilities

As the Economic Data Scientist, you will:

• Lead advanced analytics projects involving economic, labour market, and industry datasets.
• Develop and maintain statistical, econometric, machine learning, and predictive models.
• Build and maintain data pipelines, analytical tools, and automated processes using programming languages such as Python.
• Develop dashboards, data visualizations, web applications, and interactive reporting tools.
• Support policy development through quantitative analysis and evidence-based recommendations.
• Translate complex technical findings into clear business insights for decision-makers.
• Research emerging analytics, machine learning, and generative AI technologies.
• Collaborate across ministries and with external stakeholders to identify analytical needs and develop solutions.
• Provide expert advice on data science methodologies, analytics standards, and best practices.
• Prepare briefing materials, reports, and presentations for senior leadership.

The Job Description is provided for Further details on this position.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

• Systems Thinking: Considers interrelationships, trends, and long-term impacts when applying analytics to complex economic and policy questions., and integrates diverse information when developing performance frameworks, logic models, and strategic recommendations.
• Creative Problem Solving: Uses innovative analytical approaches and technical expertise to develop solutions for complex business and policy challenges.
• Drive for results: Maintains a high standard of analytical accuracy, reliability, and quality while delivering results in a timely manner.
• Build Collaborative Environments: Builds strong relationships with stakeholders and work collaboratively across teams to achieve shared objectives.

Qualifications

A University graduation in a related field; and 4 years of progressive related experience; or equivalent as described below.

Equivalency: Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of:

• 1 year of education for 1 year of experience; or
• 1 year of experience for 1 year of education.

Proven leadership experience managing and coaching technical or professional staff is required.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Lead advanced analytics projects involving economic, labour market, and industry datasets.
• Develop and maintain statistical, econometric, machine learning, and predictive models.
• Build and maintain data pipelines, analytical tools, and automated processes using programming languages such as Python.
• Develop dashboards, data visualizations, web applications, and interactive reporting tools.
• Support policy development through quantitative analysis and evidence-based recommendations.
• Translate complex technical findings into clear business insights for decision-makers.
• Research emerging analytics, machine learning, and generative AI technologies.
• Collaborate across ministries and with external stakeholders to identify analytical needs and develop solutions.
• Provide expert advice on data science methodologies, analytics standards, and best practices.
• Prepare briefing materials, reports, and presentations for senior leadership.

Assets

• A graduate degree in Economics, Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Experience implementing Generative AI solutions or Large Language Models (LLMs) in business environments.
• Experience modelling large economic or labour market datasets.
• Experience developing predictive analytics, machine learning, or AI-enabled applications.
• Experience using Azure-based analytics environments.
• Experience supporting policy development through advanced analytics and research.

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification.

Notes

One permanent   full-time position for one year, working 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. working out of Edmonton.

Cover letters are Mandatory. Any applications without cover letters would be screened out.

Candidates are required to submit resumes and cover letters that succinctly demonstrate their qualifications against the job requirements, including education, experience, and relevant competencies. It’s important for applicants to ensure their resume and cover letter clearly articulate how their past work experiences align with the role’s qualifications and needs.

Any costs associated with obtaining the required documents/checks as noted or interview travel expenses, will be the responsibility of the candidate. Out-of-province applicants can obtain the required documents/checks from the province they currently reside in. 

Links and information on what we have to offer:

• Working for the Alberta Public Service.
• Public Service Pension Plan (PSPP) . 
• Alberta Public Service Benefit Information.
• Professional learning and development.
• Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool.
• Positive workplace culture and work-life balance.