Finance Data Analyst / Research Analysis Spec Sr

Temporary senior research analysis role supporting statewide program planning, federal reporting, legislative responses, and long-range forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Produce advanced statistical and analytical products for external data requests and federal requirements
• Develop original statistical models and forecasting tools to evaluate program activity, assess policy impacts, and maintain consistency across ad hoc, public, and federally reported data
• Create and maintain innovative analytical tools, modeling systems, and data structures for statewide reporting and long-term consistency
• Build and maintain a library of common data requests and analytical outputs
• Provide expert guidance and quality assurance for analytical work across divisions to support consistency and data integrity
• Serve as a technical expert for DCYF in high-level meetings, federal consultations, and legislative discussions

Requirements

• Three (3) years of experience performing data analysis and reporting
• Experience conducting spatial or statistical analysis or modeling
• Programming experience to extract, manipulate, and analyze data
• Experience developing data visualizations to present analytical findings
• Fraud, audit, oversight, or compliance analytics experience
• SQL experience
• Experience with data collection, data analysis, data manipulation, data transformation, and interpretation
• Data visualization experience with Tableau and/or PowerBI
• Experience with analytic tools/platforms including R Studio and/or SAS

Technologies

• SQL
• Tableau
• PowerBI
• R Studio
• SAS

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to synthesize and organize large volumes of complex information and communicate results in writing and verbally in a succinct, easily understandable manner
• Comprehensive knowledge of MAXIS and/or MEC2 (or similar eligibility system for public assistance), including data structure, data relationships, and processes
• Experience working with data for Minnesota food assistance, family cash assistance, and child care assistance programs, including rules and procedures
• Understanding of data privacy laws and rules such as the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act and HIPAA
• Experience collaborating effectively with others across different backgrounds and cultures

Benefits

• Full state fringe benefits; position expected to last up to two (2) years
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan providing income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources supporting physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
• Training, classes, and professional development
• Tuition reimbursement
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (some positions may qualify; see studentaid.gov)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support

Job Details

• Agency: Children Youth & Families Dept
• Division/Unit: DCYF / Reports & Forecasts
• Job Class: Research Analysis Specialist Senior
• Job ID: 97687
• Working Title: Finance Data Analyst / Research Analysis Spec Sr
• Location: Saint Paul, MN (hybrid)
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/13/2026
• Closing Date: 10/27/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Children Youth & Families Dept / DCYF Central Office MAPE
• Work Shift: Day Shift
• Work Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• End Date: 09/22/2028
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No

Additional Requirements

• Successfully complete a background investigation prior to employment, which may include reference check, criminal background check, fingerprinting check (MNJIS/CJIS), driver’s license check, and personnel file review for all current and former public sector employees
• Additional assessment may be required during the interview process

How to Apply

• Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page
• Careers Help Desk: 651-259-3637; [email protected]
• For additional information about the application process: http://www.mn.gov/careers

Contact

• Questions about the position: Erika Martin at [email protected]
• Connect 700 Program applicants: apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title, and a valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Anny Xiong at [email protected]
• ADA accommodation for an interview: 651-431-4945 or DCYF ADA at [email protected]