Research and Analytics Supervisor

State of Montana•Helena, MT

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Are you ready to help modernize how Montana delivers Unemployment Insurance services and turn data into decisions that matter? As the Research and Analytics Supervisor, you will lead work that improves timeliness, accuracy, and accountability for workers and employers across the state. This role offers a strong platform for professional growth while advancing a mission driven program that supports Montana’s communities through fair and efficient service. The Unemployment Insurance Division relies on accurate, timely, and actionable analysis to support benefit operations, program integrity, policy implementation, and federal compliance. This position leads a team responsible for reporting, trend analysis, and operational insight that informs both daily operations and strategic decisions. The Research and Analytics Supervisor manages workflows, priorities, and quality controls to ensure leaders receive reliable information when it matters most. The role also connects program staff, leadership, and technical partners by translating complex data into clear, practical recommendations.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience leading teams or coordinating projects where setting priorities, coaching others, and ensuring quality outcomes are central responsibilities.
Experience analyzing complex data and producing reports, dashboards, or other decision support tools that inform operational or strategic actions.
Experience interpreting and applying policies, procedures, standards, or program requirements in a business, government, or regulated environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience explaining complex concepts to diverse audiences.
Proficiency with email, calendar, spreadsheet, and document software, and the ability to learn reporting platforms, case management systems, or other technical tools.
Experience handling sensitive or confidential information with sound judgment and appropriate privacy practices.
A degree in a relevant field such as data analytics, economics, statistics, public administration, information systems, or a related area may supplement relevant professional experience but is not a substitute for demonstrated skills and competencies in the areas noted above.
Equivalent combinations of education and directly related experience will be considered.
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to: Leadership and people management: Lead and develop staff, set clear expectations, provide coaching and feedback, address performance issues, and foster a productive team environment.
Analytical communication: Explain complex data, trends, and technical concepts in plain language through reports, presentations, and day to day discussions.
Operational planning and oversight: Organize workflows, set priorities, track deliverables, and maintain quality standards across multiple analytical products.
Strategic thinking and alignment: Connect reporting and analysis to broader program goals, risks, and decision points.
Stakeholder collaboration: Build effective working relationships with leadership, program staff, IT, and partners while maintaining professionalism and responsiveness.
Decision making and judgment: Evaluate information logically, make sound recommendations, and respond appropriately to changing business needs.
Continuous improvement: Review processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements that strengthen service and reliability.
Project and time management: Manage competing deadlines, coordinate staff assignments, and ensure work is completed accurately and on time.
Employees for the State of Montana must reside within Montana.

Responsibilities

Supervises, coaches, and evaluates analysts; sets expectations; assigns work; and supports professional growth and accountability.
Establishes priorities, manages workloads, and ensures timely delivery of recurring and ad hoc reports and analyses.
Directs production of dashboards and analyses related to claims activity, timeliness, accuracy, workload trends, and program integrity.
Establishes quality control standards, documentation practices, and analytical procedures that improve reliability and usability.
Connects unit priorities and staff resources to division objectives so leadership receives timely insight on risks, trends, and opportunities.
Partners with program managers, IT teams, and business partners to define reporting needs, improve data processes, and support implementation of tools or methods.
Communicates complex data and analysis in clear, actionable terms for technical and non technical audiences.
Formalizes oversight of critical research and reporting functions to reduce dependence on single person knowledge and support continuity of operations.

Benefits

Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Military leave: You’ll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary.
A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness!
Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026.
This position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)