JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Data Scientist – Strategic Data Intelligence leads advanced analytics, modeling, and predictive insights for Houston ISD’s enterprise systems. This role focuses on data from Finance, Budgeting, Procurement, HR, and other ERP domains. The Senior Data Scientist works across departments to develop models that inform operational decision-making, forecast resource needs, and identify efficiency opportunities. The role plays a key part in ensuring HISD leverages Microsoft Fabric and Power BI to build intelligent, automated data tools that support a modern, cloud-based ERP landscape.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1.    Build and maintain statistical and machine learning models using data from enterprise systems.
2.    Partner with Finance, HR, Procurement, and Budgeting teams to understand strategic data needs.
3.    Develop forecasts, classification models, or cluster analyses to optimize operations.
4.    Create executive dashboards, simulations, and decision-support tools using Power BI and Microsoft Fabric.
5    Lead efforts to clean, normalize, and combine data from Oracle Fusion, legacy SAP, and other platforms.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

6.    Publish clear documentation and visual explanations of findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
7.    Collaborate with data engineers and architects to ensure models are reproducible and scalable.
8.    Evaluate external datasets and economic indicators to enhance district forecasting.
9.    Mentor other analysts and data professionals within the department.
10.    Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

Master’s degree in data science, statistics, applied mathematics, or related quantitative field required. Ph.D. preferred.

*Applicants who do not meet these education qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 6 years in data science, analytics, or quantitative research. Experience with ERP or operational systems in education, government, or large enterprises preferred.

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

•    Advanced experience with Python, R, or other statistical programming languages
•    Strong SQL and data modeling skills
•    Experience using Power BI and Microsoft Fabric for data analysis
•    Knowledge of ERP data structures (finance, HR, procurement)
•    Strong communication and data storytelling abilities
•    Preferred certifications: Microsoft Certified: Data Scientist Associate, Azure Data Scientist Associate    

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

Serves as a senior contributor and thought leader within the Strategic Data Intelligence team. May lead projects or mentor junior analysts.    

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

Applies independent judgment to solve complex, ambiguous problems. Chooses modeling approaches, variables, and algorithms based on context and stakeholder needs.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

May provide input on software, tools, or external data subscriptions needed to support modeling.    
 

PROBLEM SOLVING

Translates large-scale, messy data into actionable insights and predictive tools. Identifies gaps and inefficiencies in data collection or usage.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Models and forecasts directly influence staffing, budgeting, procurement, and other enterprise decisions across HISD.    

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

Presents models, insights, and scenarios to senior district leadership, department heads, and peer analysts.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Provides expert-level support to business units seeking to improve operations using predictive and statistical tools.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Office or hybrid setting. Extended screen time and data review required. May work long hours during major forecasting periods.