Term: Permanent, Full-Time
Division/Branch: Information and Information Technology (I+IT) Division / Enterprise Data and Analytics (EDA) Branch
Application Deadline: May 9, 2025
Pay Level: 10
Pay Range: $98,530 to $123,159
Position Location: Head Office, Toronto, ON; Hybrid
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is responsible for regulating the alcohol, gaming, horse racing and private cannabis retail sectors in Ontario, in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, and in the public interest.
The Enterprise Data and Analytics (EDA) Branch within the Information and Information Technology (I+IT) Division is seeking an experienced Lead Data Scientist. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Data Science and Analytics, the Lead Data Scientist will play a critical role in, and be responsible for, the design, building and delivery of cloud-based analytical solutions and insights to support the organization's program and project objectives.
In This Role, The Successful Candidate Will
- Design, prototype and develop statistical analysis and/or advanced analytics on a proactive basis, and in response to specific partner requests. Deliverables may include, but are not limited to, machine learning algorithms (i.e., predictive models, prescriptive models), generative AI solutions, statistical analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) analysis and business intelligence solutions (dashboards and reports).
- Serve as a data science and advanced analytics subject matter expert on inter-disciplinary project teams and/or as an ad-hoc advisor to deliver data analytics expertise and advice.
- Participate in problem analysis and identify opportunities where business intelligence and statistics or advanced analytics, such as predictive modelling or prescriptive analytics, can be used to support project and/or program objectives.
- Lead the delivery of formal presentations to internal and external stakeholders to explain analytical findings, identify areas of further research and refinement, and support the identification of appropriate policy, budgetary and operational responses.
- Collaborate with inter-disciplinary project team members to operationalize analytical solutions. This may include the design of field trials, applications to deliver analytical insights and reporting to track on-going model and program performances.
- Partner with Data Integration Developers to design and build automated pipelines that prepare data and apply analytical models for the on-going operationalization of data-driven solutions.
- Conduct periodic reviews of developed analytical solutions to identify opportunities for enhancements or evolution. This may include opportunities to improve machine learning algorithms and/or the adjustment of pipeline processes to optimize the use of cloud-based resources.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
- A post-secondary degree in data science, machine learning, computer science, mathematics, statistics, operations research, or a related field, along with extensive experience applying analytics techniques to solve real-world business challenges. Training or certification in generative AI, data engineering, or business intelligence solution development is considered an asset.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and SQL, and experience using machine learning frameworks and natural language processing libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, NLTK, spaCy).
- Strong knowledge of statistical methods and data mining algorithms, including decision trees, clustering, regression, and neural networks.
- A demonstrated growth mindset --- staying current with developments in the data science field and applying data skills across the full data lifecycle, from engineering to model building, machine learning, and business intelligence.
- Experience using cloud-based data tools and platforms, including Microsoft Fabric, Azure Machine Learning, Azure Foundry, Azure Synapse Analytics, and Visual Studio. Familiarity with tools such as SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) is a plus.
- Proficient in using Microsoft Office tools to support communication and reporting needs.
- Comfortable working in agile environments and collaborating through platforms like Azure DevOps.
- Experience in risk modeling and/or geospatial analysis is an asset.
- Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including the ability to navigate complex issues and collaborate with diverse teams.
- The successful candidate must be eligible to work in Canada and will be subject to a criminal background check.
The AGCO is an inclusive and equal opportunity employer.
The AGCO has the responsibility to lead by example in advancing racial equity and to build a diverse, inclusive, accessible and respectful workplace where every employee has a voice and the opportunity to fully contribute. To this effect, you are encouraged to reflect upon the diversity you would bring to the role within your application including, but not limited to, individuals identifying with one or more of the under-represented groups identified within Ontario's Human Rights Code.
Disability related accommodation during the recruitment process is available upon request.
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