RESEARCH ANALYST 1

City of Toronto

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Analyst 1 will research and analyze information and data to inform and support policy and program development, planning and implementation. Collects, analyzes, interprets and maintains research reports and related documents utilizing statistical, economic and service delivery data.

Requirements

Post-Secondary degree or diploma in the area of social sciences (social work, social policy, sociology/social psychology, social anthropology) or other related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Considerable experience designing surveys and leading research on program delivery projects involving different research methodologies and practices including the collecting, analyzing, and reporting of data, research findings and recommendations.
Considerable experience drafting and developing reports, briefing notes, presentations, and other documents; presenting orally and in writing; and discussing recommendations, research, outcomes, and other business needs.
Considerable experience using Excel, Access, and related data analysis software (e.g. SPSS) to manage electronic databases and manipulate data, as well as experience using PowerPoint and Word.
Strong organizational, project management and business analysis skills to optimize and coordinate resources to achieve desired results.
Ability to analyze data, and query on an ad hoc basis.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with all levels of staff and internal / external stakeholders with a high level of flexibility to deal with rapidly emerging situations and support collaborative working relationships.
Ability to work independently or in a team environment, including engaging all stakeholders in information gathering, problem-solving and issue resolution.
Well-developed verbal and written communication skills with an ability to prepare reports and statistics within tight deadlines and appropriately tailored to target audiences (e.g. Senior leadership, Council, internal partners, funders, etc.).
Ability to undertake research with vulnerable / high risk individuals and groups using appropriate approaches and methodologies.
Sound knowledge of legislation, regulation and policies governing social assistance, employment supports and the relationship with the provincial government.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Oracle Discoverer and PLSQL would be an asset.
Knowledge of spatial analysis and the ability to conduct related techniques to manipulate, extract, locate and analyze geographic data using GIS software would be an asset.

Responsibilities

Conducts research and jurisdictional reviews on topics involving collection of information from sources such as other levels of government, libraries, public databases, other divisions, community agencies, and global organizations such as the United Nations. Conducts literature searches and utilizes other social, economic and scientific research methods. Develops and administers questionnaires, surveys and other tools for gathering of business information.
Collects, analyzes, evaluates and interprets and present information/findings to develop recommendations for improvement to existing Divisional projects, policies and services and to inform and support the development of theories, concepts, tactics and objectives for new Divisional projects, policies and services.
Identifies and monitors information on social, economic, wellness and environmental needs of the community and specific population groups to assess and forecast needs, strengths and gaps.
Provides policy and program analysis and research support on a broad range of economic, business and strategic infrastructure and service delivery issues.
Writes and presents reports for senior management and Council based on research. Documents findings, supporting data, recommendations, options and theories.
Prepares and co-ordinates briefs and summary reports on subjects such as legislative/regulatory changes, research information and implications and/or risks of findings and program recommendations.
Prepares abstracts and summaries of studies using a range of analytical techniques such as statistical, economic, scientific and qualitative.
Provides research support to other divisions, Councillors, task forces and committees by locating and providing information requested.
Circulates data throughout the Division in support of operational mandate.
Develops and sets up computer applications to store and retrieve data (e.g., census information, library catalogues).
Queries and analysis of Social Assistance Management System (SAMS), extract data for tactical reporting and research purposes.
Maintains library to support unit operations e.g. research data, statistics, acts, books, periodicals, reference material and council minutes.
Collects, purchases, indexes/catalogues and files material.
Updates material using personal computer.
Modifies/develops reference system. Attends meetings with staff, networks with other units, divisions, different levels of government, libraries and community agencies. Participates in problem solving and development of solutions.
Provides accurate and timely statistics, data analysis and related insights.