Data Analyst Lead

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

6d•$41 - $61

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is seeking an experienced IT professional to join our team as an IT Analyst III, a lead-level technical role responsible for leading database, data integration, and enterprise system initiatives that support critical agency operations. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex technical problems, working with modern data platforms, and helping shape the direction of enterprise technology. In this role, you will serve as a lead technical resource for SQL Server, database administration, and system integration projects, working on initiatives that connect internal applications with vendor-hosted and cloud-based solutions. You will play a key role in planning and implementing database upgrades, designing data integration approaches, and ensuring systems perform reliably as our technology environment continues to evolve. You will work closely with the IT Supervisor and other senior staff to define integration strategies, database standards, and best practices, helping guide the technical direction of new projects and system enhancements. This includes collaborating with software vendors, evaluating new technologies, and developing solutions that allow multiple systems to share data efficiently and securely. This position also provides the opportunity to take a leadership role in technical projects, mentor other IT staff, and influence how enterprise data systems are designed and maintained. If you enjoy working at a senior technical level while still being hands-on with SQL, database design, and system architecture, this role offers a strong balance of leadership and technical work. Why this position is a great opportunity: Work on enterprise-level SQL Server and database systems Lead data integration and modernization projects Collaborate with vendors and cloud-based platforms Influence technical architecture and best practices Take on a senior technical leadership role without moving into full management Be part of long-term system modernization and upgrade initiatives This position is a great fit for someone who wants to continue growing as a senior technical specialist while helping guide the future of enterprise data and application systems. We reward our employees' hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes: State-matched retirement contribution of 156% 13 paid holidays Generous leave accruals that begin immediately Military leave Tuition reimbursement program Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government 79% employer-paid health insurance plans Dental and vision insurance plans Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service Training and Development based on your career aspirations Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship Employee Assistance Program Fun, inviting teammates Free parking Pay range is $41.102 - $60.589 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: Associate Degree in Computer Science/IT and four years related experience or a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in computer science, information systems, mathematics, engineering, or other related field, and three years of experience. Experience may include application programming, software installation, and software maintenance, including systems programming, online programming, database design, analysis, and programming using IFS and/or SQL/DS and database administration. Any equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES Knowledge of: Principles and practices of database administration, data management, and data integration; relational database systems such as SQL Server, including backup, recovery, performance tuning, and security; business intelligence, reporting, and data tracking systems. ETL and data integration tools such as FME, SSIS, or similar technologies. Windows Server operating systems, including patching, updates, and system maintenance; application, database, and server upgrade processes, including testing and deployment procedures. System architecture concepts related to enterprise applications, vendor-hosted systems, and cloud-based solutions. Information technology project planning, coordination, and implementation practices. IT service portal processes, including incident and service request tracking. Data security, backup, and disaster recovery principles. Technical documentation standards, policies, and procedures. Skills in: Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical documentation skills. Leading and coordinating work related to databases, business intelligence, and data integration. Analyzing system performance and resolving database, server, and integration issues. Planning and implementing system upgrades, patches, and migrations; configuring and maintaining database, reporting, and integration environments. Working with vendors to resolve technical issues and implement system changes. Managing multiple assignments and priorities. Monitoring and responding to service requests, incidents, and system alerts. Preparing clear technical documentation. Communicating technical information to both technical and non-technical staff. Ability to: Lead projects and coordinate work among IT staff and vendors. Serve as a senior resource for database and business intelligence systems. Act as backup for primary database administration functions; evaluate technical problems and develop effective solutions. Plan and carry out system upgrades and integration efforts. Work independently with limited supervision. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, supervisors, and vendors. Learn and apply new technologies. Maintain accuracy and attention to detail while working on complex systems. Organize and prioritize work across multiple systems and projects. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

Experience with SQL Server database administration, including performance tuning, backups, upgrades, and troubleshooting
Experience with data integration, ETL, or business intelligence tools (such as FME, SSIS, Power BI, or similar technologies)
Experience supporting Windows Server environments, including updates, patching, and system maintenance
Experience working with enterprise applications and vendor-hosted systems
Experience leading or coordinating technical projects, database work, or reporting/BI initiatives
Experience writing advanced SQL queries, stored procedures, or database scripts
Experience with system upgrades, migrations, or infrastructure changes
Experience using service portals or ticketing systems to track requests and incidents
Completion of an NDOT or State of Nebraska Leadership Development program
Experience working independently while also coordinating work with technical staff, supervisors, and vendors

Responsibilities

Lead work related to enterprise database administration, data integration, and business intelligence systems supporting agency applications and reporting needs.
Coordinate and lead database and business intelligence projects, including planning, task assignments, monitoring progress, and ensuring completion of technical deliverables.
Act as backup for primary database administration functions, including SQL Server maintenance, troubleshooting, upgrades, and support of production, test, and development environments.
Plan, coordinate, and implement database upgrades, patches, and migrations, ensuring proper testing, documentation, and minimal disruption to operations.
Lead and support Business Intelligence and Business Intelligence tracking initiatives, including development and maintenance of reporting databases, dashboards, and data integration processes.
Perform and coordinate FME upgrades, patching, and configuration changes, ensuring compatibility with existing systems and vendor applications.
Perform and coordinate Windows Server updates, patching, and maintenance for servers supporting database, integration, and reporting environments.
Monitor and manage assigned service requests and incident tickets, ensuring timely resolution, proper prioritization, and communication with users and technical staff.
Plan and implement data integration solutions between internal systems and vendor-hosted or cloud-based applications, including defining data flows, interfaces, and validation processes.
Work with software vendors and internal stakeholders to evaluate integration approaches, system requirements, and technical specifications.
Assist the IT Supervisor I in establishing database standards, integration practices, and technical procedures to ensure consistency across systems.
Monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues related to database availability, data integrity, and system interoperability.
Participate in long-range planning for system upgrades, database capacity, and technology improvements affecting enterprise data systems.
Provide technical guidance and mentoring to other IT staff on database, business intelligence, and integration tools and processes.
Document system configurations, upgrade procedures, and integration processes in accordance with agency standards.
Ensure systems comply with agency policies related to security, data management, backup, and disaster recovery.
Participate in project planning and coordination activities for enterprise IT initiatives and modernization efforts.
Coordinate with OCIO and BTSD BI developers on the creation of NDOT SharePoint sites.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
13 paid holidays
Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
Military leave
Tuition reimbursement program
Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
79% employer-paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
Employee Assistance Program
Fun, inviting teammates
Free parking