Economic Research Analyst-C1528

Summary of Duties:

Under the direction of the Manager, Economic Partnerships, the Economic Research Analyst will provide expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to support the work of Economic programs and performance across multiple Service Areas to collect, analyze, interpret and maintain data about the London economy and its main sectors. The work requires the ability to develop research questions and produce substantiating data and reports to support and advance the objectives within the Economic Services and Supports Division.

Work Performed:

• As subject matter expert, provide the city and region’s economic research analytics: conduct research, analyses and data and statistics interpretation using a range of analytical techniques.
• Plan, design and conduct research/data analyses for internal and external stakeholders. Design and develop econometric models to benchmark and analyze the local economy and local economic indicators over time, into the future, and relative to other jurisdictions.
• Determine, in consultation with the Manager and Director, research priorities for the London region and the London business community by monitoring social, economic research and cultural issues, policies, and conditions.
• Provide the most current statistical information (e.g., mapping support for the site evaluation, community economic development), and provide recommendations on policy, projects, and services.
• Develop new and/or improved capacity for economic research/analysis and projections that can provide improved insights into economic and business challenges or opportunities for the City of London.
• Identify new data sources and ways of collecting data to inform the understanding of the investment climate, related risk factors, and economic development opportunities and risks.
• Research, collect and summarize information and data including but not limited to: industry and market intelligence, demographics, labour force, income, and economic indicators, community and sector profiles, development and construction values, tax assessment values, etc.
• Share focused economic research and analysis from outside the London region to assist in improvements in the sustained economic performance of the London region.
• Prepare abstracts, briefs, reports and study summaries regarding economic research, analysis and findings for Standing Committees and Council-directed task forces/special committees.
• Develop and prepare multi-page Economic Overview of the City of London, identifying and leveraging key indicators and analyzing indicators to describe London’s economic performance.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive business, labour force, real estate, fiscal and economic databases and information systems, specific to the London market to support business investment and public policy decision-making.
• Lead efforts to assemble relevant data, initiate contact with external and internal groups and identify new data sources to complete necessary analysis, identifying computer applications to store and retrieve data (e.g., census information) and work with the Information Technology Division to bring new systems on line.
• Plan, design and conduct educational sessions for presentation to internal stakeholders in consultation with the Manager.
• Support Service Areas in the development of new programs and the request for proposals by proving background research and data.
• Integrate GIS capability into research, evaluation and policy analysis and produces supporting maps as required.
• Identify emerging trends, issues and opportunities that impact the City, and formulate related frameworks and strategies.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Masters) in economics, economic development, commerce, statistics, and/or information studies or closely related discipline combined with research experience involving economic models, and experience and technical expertise in utilizing computerized systems and statistical and visualization software, including most of the following: ArcGIS/QGIS, SAS, Microsoft Dynamics, Power BI, Power Automate, Python, Google Analytics, Excel macros, and all components of Microsoft Office. Strong research and analytical skills as demonstrated in original research projects in the field of economics.
• An affiliation with Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) or Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC). Certified Economic Developer (EcD) through EDAC or similar is an asset.

Experience:

Minimum of four years of experience in a related role as an economist or analyst and progressive experience in economic research and analysis, preferably in both the private and public sectors. Experience with research and analysis of primary and secondary data using appropriate methodologies, quantitative and statistical analysis and providing facts, evidence and conclusions to support internal and external decision-making. Experience conducting research in the field of economics (labour economics and macroeconomics would be an asset).

Specialized Training & Licenses:

Skills and abilities in the following areas are necessary:

• Ability to apply research methods, approaches and tools such as quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis to a wide variety of research problems.
• Strong data visualization, statistical analysis and interpretation skills are required.
• Proficiency in synthesizing complex concepts and information from a variety of sources.
• Ability to translate complex technical information clearly and concisely based on the audience and risk.
• Experience working with information and data relevant to municipal and provincial economies such as London/Ontario.
• Knowledge of relevant government legislation and practices for collection, dissemination of information/analysis and use of original data sources.
• Ability to draw conclusions from data that may be contradictory and ambiguous, including the ability to determine what is most relevant.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to confirm data accuracy.
• Ability to carry out multiple tasks and work effectively and independently in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Other Information:

$64,785 - $94,167 (Level 15)

This posting is for (1) permanent full-time opportunity being filled on a permanent full-time basis. 

Current hours of Work: Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Work Arrangement: Hybrid. Subject to change in accordance with business requirements.

These hours of work are subject to change in accordance with the Collective Agreement and may include evening hours and Saturdays.

NOTE : Applicants may be required to complete a job related test.

Police Record Check:

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Basic Criminal Record Check (CRC).