The role of the Data & Performance Specialist will support various programmatic and evaluation functions with insights gained from analyzing the performance and outcomes of youth program participants. This position will leverage large data sets and use appropriate statistical modeling to determine the effectiveness of program services and interventions. A successful candidate will 

1) have strong experience using a variety of data recording and analysis methods, using a variety of tools, 2) analyze, summarize and effectively manage performance of program participants via the Department of Labor’s Management Information Systems, the State of Michigan’s One-Stop Management Information System and Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation’s (DESC) data management system (currently LaunchPad, a Salesforce tool), and 3) develop, advise and implement data management strategies that maximize positive performance.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain data systems that manage contractor Performance Outcomes and Key Performance Indicators (KPI);
• Ensure integrity of data inputs by conducting trainings and providing technical assistance to contractors on how to provide relevant information for upload to all data systems;
• Monitor performance for federally funded programs and create queries and reports that help DESC leadership and contractors identify potential issues and areas for improvement;
• Analyze and draw insightful conclusions from large amounts of quantitative and qualitative data;
• Fulfill data requests and regularly prepare and maintain reports for management and leadership analysis that capture specific program, contractor and system-wide performance;
• Manage large datasets using spreadsheets, Smartsheets, or other database and statistical software, as well as develop recommendations and tools that can be used to correct performance issues;
• In partnership with external evaluators, assist in evaluation of program effectiveness, investigate trends, and recommend modifications to improve program effectiveness;
• Exhibit professionalism, diplomacy, and ability to appropriately interact with staff and local stakeholders while maintaining beneficial working relationships in all aspects;
• Organize and facilitate various meetings, as necessary;
• Demonstrate strong projection and strategic thinking skills; and
• Perform other related duties as required.
• The above functions are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed in this role. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties of the position.

DESIRED CRITERIA:

To perform this job successfully, this role requires an ability to diagnose, recommend and develop solutions to data collection/entry inconsistencies and report issues to relevant staff. Specifically, the qualified candidate will enter accurate data, process requests for reports, analyze reports for consistency against other known data factors, implement solutions to correct anomalies, devise alternative strategies to improve results, and communicate such in a fashion that makes a positive contribution to the overall strategy. 

Specific qualifications include but are not limited to: 

• Familiarity with state and federal database systems;
• Considerable knowledge of statistical analysis methods and techniques;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Must be able to communicate effectively in person, in writing and virtually;
• Strong training / facilitation skills;
• Experience visualizing and communicating data concepts to colleagues of varied technical backgrounds;
• Ability to demonstrate project management skills to produce quality, timely, and complete work product;
• Ability to exhibit professionalism and sound organizational skills at all times;
• Demonstrate the technical aptitude required to learn and use relevant tools and software to perform the job;
• Ability to effectively work in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment to meet deadlines while managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Must be comfortable with and able to adapt to changing demands; and
• Must be discrete and professional, particularly when handling confidential information.
• The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Local area travel may be required.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree and/or certification in Computer Science, Data Science, Analytics, Public Policy, Applied Statistics/Mathematics, or another related field;
• At least five (5) years of related professional experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience is required;
• At least three (3) years of experience in a role that focused on data and performance management is required;
• Relevant experience working in a nonprofit, education or community-based organization is preferred; and
• Experience researching and analyzing training and workforce initiatives or other social service programs, and general knowledge of workforce trends highly desirable.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No

OTHER: Background check and drug screen required.

The Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within our organization. DESC actively seeks applications from women, persons of color, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.