We are seeking an Analyst with an interest in human service programs and/or quality improvement programs. The Analyst must be able to work both independently as well as part of a team in conducting quality and outcome analysis to unify and coordinate quality service provision across one or more program offices of the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS), and may also conduct research and analysis related to other program areas with which DHS interacts (e.g., public education, health, criminal justice).  DHS’s program offices include Behavioral Health, Intellectual Disability, Area Agency on Aging, Community Services and Children, Youth and Families. Additional responsibilities will include:

• Processing and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to support the daily operational data needs of DHS; a focus on client service data and quick turnaround response to requests from DHS staff/administration and outside entities is a large part of the job. While the Analyst is not required to be an expert in all statistical tests and methods, Incumbent is expected to recognize his/her particular expertise in data analysis and to seek other expert opinions whenever appropriate.
• Extracting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to support the daily operational data needs of DHS.
• Developing an understanding of DHS’s services and systems, in order to promote the effective use of data for decision-making through insightful analysis.
• Sharing knowledge and findings through effective verbal and written presentations, to internal and to external stakeholders.
• Assisting in the development and design of research studies to evaluate human service programs administered by DHS. Studies may focus upon particular programs, cross-system service utilization or particular consumer groups or service needs. This work may include cleaning and analysis; performing literature reviews; obtaining secondary data sources; and gathering input from a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Serving as a bridge between application developer, leadership and end-users to ensure that the data stored and retrieved from the system meet the research and operational needs of DHS.
• Querying databases to answer ad hoc requests to support program offices.
• Creating dashboards and data visualizations using Tableau software.
• Supporting the development and implementation of quality improvement strategies for DHS.
• Assisting in the development and implementation of DHS’s research agenda.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated interest in public service and research.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite, specifically Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience querying relational databases with SQL.
• Experience with data visualization (Tableau preferred).
• Experience with R or Python (or other programming languages).
• Experience mapping in ArcGIS or R.
• Experience working with both technical and non-technical teams.
• Ability to embrace and operationalize DHS’s mission and guiding principles in work practices and deliverables.
• Experience working with a variety of information systems and data files, including large and complex files and transforming raw data into finished products.
• Ability to think critically and effectively communicate results to a diverse audience.
• Strong time management and prioritization abilities so as to respond quickly to requests from DHS staff/administration and outside entities.
• Attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to interact professionally with DHS and provider staff, consumers and general public.
• Ability to take initiative and work with a high level of independence.
• Able to thrive in an environment that requires flexibility and multi-tasking.
• Able to sit at a computer for long periods (2 plus hours) and traverse the building carrying up to 10 pounds (files, books, etc.).
• Has both available and consistent access to reliable transportation and is able to navigate in the community for work-related assignments, as needed.

Education/Experience Requirements:

Master’s degree from an accredited college/university in public policy or a quantitative field and experience with data visualization also preferred.

-OR-

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in a related field, plus 2 years of previous relevant experience.

If hired for a position, candidates would work for Allegheny County, Department of Human Services and be employed by Great Lakes Behavioral Research Institute.

About Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS)

In Allegheny County, we appreciate people who think big, act boldly, and care about making a difference. You don’t have to be from here to feel at home, or to make your mark. With only 1.3 million people in the County, it’s small enough for motivated people to get things done. Allegheny County’s Department of Human Services (DHS) is a perfect place to get things done that directly affect people in need in a positive and lasting way. We help children grow up safer and healthier, older adults remain able to live independently, and neighborhoods to thrive. Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of people in Allegheny County.

DHS is the largest agency in Allegheny County government, with a budget of nearly $1 billion. DHS serves over 200,000 people a year through services that include: Protecting children and youth from abuse and neglect and preventing future occurrences of maltreatment; improving child wellness through family support, home visiting, early intervention and in-home services; providing treatment for behavioral health issues such as substance use disorders and mental illness; managing the care of adults with intellectual disabilities; preventing unnecessary nursing home stays; and services that prevent homelessness and provide shelter and housing for families and individuals.

Why DHS?

•  It is innovative. Most recently, the national attention and awards we’ve gotten are for how DHS integrates data and uses them to improve the safety and well-being of children through tools that support front-line staff in making decisions (using predictive analytics).
• DHS is diverse, but we strive to be even more inclusive. Our director has made it his top priority that DHS is “the kind of place where a diverse group of talented people want to come, grow, and do their best work.” This includes equity in hiring and advancement, as well as in unleashing the creativity and ideas of staff at every level of DHS.
•  It has strong, assertive leaders. We do not hire yes-people.

You can make a big impact here. We stand out as one of the best human services organizations in the country. But we need problem-solvers, innovators, and terrific leaders to make sure we are smart in how we use our funding so that we reach the people who most need our help to make their lives better.

“DHS strives to be the kind of place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come to grow and do their best work.”

-From the organization’s statement on Equity and Inclusion

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER – M/F/V/D