Senior Budget Analyst

State of Ohio • Columbus, OH

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) is seeking a Senior Budget Analyst for its Office of Fiscal and Monitoring Services (OFMS) Fiscal Services Division. This division is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring all agency budget activities, including the biennial budget process, annual budget implementation, and projecting federal budget estimates. The role involves managing complex fiscal and budget work, building relationships with program areas, and contributing to projects that enhance agency operations. The Senior Budget Analyst will gain in-depth knowledge of ODJFS programs to make sound budget decisions.

Requirements

• Option 1: 4 years’ experience in budgeting that included fiscal management & control involving use of quantitative/statistical analysis (e.g., probability statistics, linear regression, multiple variable regression, computer assisted regression analysis models, trend analysis, forecasting cost benefit analysis).
• Option 2: Completion of graduate core program in accounting, public finance, public administration or business administration; AND 12 months’ experience in fiscal management & control involving use of quantitative/statistical analysis (e.g., probability statistics, linear regression, multiple variable regression, computer regression analysis models, trend analysis, forecasting cost benefit analysis).
• Option 3: Completion of undergraduate core program in accounting, public finance, public administration or business administration.
• Option 4: 12 months’ experience as Budget Analyst, 63261.
• Option 5: The equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above.

Nice To Haves

• Fiscal analysis across multiple data sources; ability to research, collate, classify, and analyze information to draw valid conclusions.
• Forecasting methods (trend analysis, cash flow analysis) and skill comparing actual vs. estimated expenditures.
• Report development with clear narratives and visuals tailored to the audience.
• Independence and prioritization: manage workload and deliver to deadlines with minimal oversight.
• OAKS BI reporting experience (or comparable ERP/BI reporting) and strong Excel skills; familiarity with visuals (e.g., charts in PowerPoint).
• Communication: Ability to present complex data simply and engage partners constructively.
• Experience with public sector budgets, grant funding, or human services programs.
• Exposure to variance investigation, fund transfers, or allotment planning at a portfolio level.
• Experience building process improvements, templates, or standard methodology.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage budgets for assigned program areas (operating, capital, and grant funding), including allotments and cash flow.
• Forecast and monitor appropriations, expenditures, encumbrances, and utilization to stay within targets and compliance requirements.
• Analyze spending patterns and recommend fund transfers so accounts can meet obligations without service interruptions.
• Build grant-specific spending plans using data from multiple sources, aligning plans with federal and state rules.
• Create and present reports (tables, charts, visuals) that convert complex data into clear insights tailored to the audience.
• Investigate variances (actuals vs. estimates), identify drivers, and recommend corrective actions.
• Clear purchase order (PO)/Voucher/Paycard/Travel errors.
• Submit journal entries according to appropriation line item (ALI) assignment list.
• Review and approve OhioBuys pending items daily.
• Partner with program areas to understand operations, emerging needs, and the impact of policy or volume changes on budgets.
• Contribute to process improvements and special projects that increase accuracy, speed, and transparency in the Budget Bureau.
• Prepare budget meeting materials with program office.

Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
• Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
• Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
• Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior