Sr. Data Scientist Enterprise Data Intelligence

Houston ISD•Houston, TX

168d•Onsite

About The Position

This role serves as a senior technical leader within the Data Intelligence Office, responsible for designing and implementing predictive models and machine learning algorithms. The position involves analyzing districtwide data to support various initiatives, integrating data from multiple sources, and developing simulations to guide planning. The Sr. Data Scientist will present findings to diverse audiences, collaborate with various stakeholders, and mentor junior analysts. This role requires translating strategic questions into analytical models and ensuring data governance compliance.

Requirements

A Master's degree in data science, statistics, applied mathematics, economics, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree plus relevant work experience is acceptable.
Minimum of 6 years in data science, research, or applied analytics roles.
Expert proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and Power BI
Strong statistical and machine learning skills (e.g., regression, classification, time series, clustering)
Familiarity with education data structures and public sector decision-making
Data storytelling and visualization expertise
Serves as senior technical leader within the Data Intelligence Office.
May lead projects and mentor junior analysts.
Manages high-impact modeling projects with districtwide consequences.
Applies independent professional judgment to determine methods and interpret results.
Translates strategic questions into analytical models.
Identifies data issues and proposes data-informed solutions.
Models influence district investment decisions, student support strategies, and strategic planning efforts.
Collaborates with department leads, executive staff, and board advisors.
Presents findings to senior leadership and external partners.
Provides critical insight and foresight to HISD leadership teams.
Builds stakeholder trust through actionable, validated analytics.

Nice To Haves

Experience in public education, government, or nonprofit analytics preferred.
Applicants who do not meet these education qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

Design and implement predictive models and machine learning algorithms for student outcomes, budgeting, staffing, and resource planning.
Analyze districtwide data to support equity tracking, chronic absenteeism, enrollment forecasting, and SPED identification trends.
Integrate data from Microsoft Fabric, SIS, ERP, and external datasets to answer complex research questions.
Develop simulations and decision support tools to guide executive and board-level planning.
Present findings using compelling visuals and narratives tailored to non-technical audiences.
Partner with academics, operations, and finance to align data insights with real-world decisions.
Maintain reproducible research workflows and ensure compliance with data governance policies.
Collaborate with data architects and engineers to ensure model-ready datasets are accurate and current.
Mentor analysts and support the expansion of data fluency across departments.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.