Principal Data Analytics Engineer

Description: 

Responsible for managing enterprise-wide data analytics initiatives, leading innovation in AI/ML, and overseeing data governance and data management best practice compliance. The Principal Data Analytics Engineer provides strategic direction for Metro's data analytics programs, supervises teams, and collaborates with executive leadership to enhance data-driven decision-making. Reports to the Senior Wastewater Process Engineering Manager.

Examples of Duties:

1. Evaluates the performance of the data analytics team and provides training, coaching, and discipline as necessary. Manages the employee selection process for data analytics employee hiring.
2. Define and drive the strategic vision for advanced data analytics and digital transformation.
3. Own and oversee complex root cause analyses of data systems, workflows, and governance structures.
4. Oversee AI/ML deployment, digital twin technology, and enterprise-level analytics.
5. Ensure data integration across multiple platforms and lead the transition to scalable, high-performance data solutions.
6. Advocate for funding and technology investments to advance Metro’s analytics capabilities.
7. Influences executive leadership on data strategy and analytics adoption.
8. Ensures compliance with governance, security, and privacy standards.
9. Foster leadership development and guide staff toward managerial responsibilities. 
10. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Knowledge of:

1. Advanced understanding of AI/ML approaches, predictive modeling, and digital twins
2. Deep understanding of cloud-based analytics, enterprise architecture, and distributed computing
3. Leads organization-wide cloud transformation and architecture for analytics
4. Extensive knowledge of data analytics technologies, platforms, and software to evaluate and align with organizational strategies
5. Advanced understanding of change management practices for data analytics initiatives

Skilled at:

1. Executive-level communication and data storytelling capabilities
2. Expert-level proficiency in Alteryx, Pi Asset Framework, and PiVision, integrating advanced analytics with operational and business intelligence strategies
3. Leading cross-functional AI/ML and big data projects
4. Expertise in Excel, including VBA, advanced modeling, and enterprise-level data analysis
5. Overseeing financial modeling and ROI analysis for data initiatives
6. Active and empathic listening skills
7. Training and mentoring staff
8. Managing disagreements, de-escalating conflicts and negotiating win-win solutions
9. Project management including work planning, resource allocation and progress reviews through to project completion

Ability to:

1. Shape and execute long-term data analytics strategies to drive innovation
2. Implement and enforce policies and procedures fairly and consistently
3. Ability to effectively supervise staff
4. Lead direction, communication, and outcomes in cross-functional teams
5. Secure funding and advocate for enterprise-wide analytics investments
6. Influence executive-level data-driven decisions that impact operational and business strategies
7. Dissect large datasets and complex information independently to simplify and migrate to a different platform or format

Education, License, and Certification
Master’s degree in data science, computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or related field from an accredited college or university. A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Working Conditions:

Typical Work Environment  
Working on a variety of floor surfaces including tile, carpet, sidewalks; Work in parking lots; Uneven Surfaces; Slippery surfaces; Wet surfaces; Lighting conditions including natural light, fluorescent, head lamps, incandescent, and overhead lighting; Inside environment; Outside environment; Vibration due to vehicle driving

Body Position Demands
Reaching in front; Standing; Walking; Balancing; Object handling; Typing; Simple hand grasping; Driving a vehicle; Sitting; Climbing stairs; Stooping; Kneeling; Crouching; Fine hand coordination; Firm hand grasping

Physical Demands(max forces are expected to be infrequent)
Max Weight Lifted: 40 lbs. 
Max Weight Carried: 20lbs
Max Force Pushed: 3 lbs
Max Force Pulled: 3 lbs

Sensory Requirements
Wide field of view; Perception - Spatial; Olfactory (Smelling); Vision - Near; Far, Depth perception; Color discrimination; Perception - Form; Feeling without seeing; Speaking; Hearing