Senior Data Scientist

Senior Data Scientist, VPS4

• Opportunity to use your amazing data skills to create a more accountable and transparent public sector   
• Generate impact and create better lives for Victorians   
• Permanent, ongoing roles available    
• Extraordinary flexible working arrangements through our ‘'Better Normal Principles’.    

What we do

The Victorian Auditor-General’s Office (VAGO) is part of Victoria’s integrity system. We conduct audits and reviews to ensure that public sector entities are transparent and accountable to the Victorian Parliament and the communities they serve.     

The Parliamentary Reports and Services Division of VAGO conducts audits and reviews of public sector entities for and on behalf of Parliament. Our people are committed to informing Parliament and the community about the performance of the public sector and how to improve public services.    

There are around 70 staff in the Division, bringing together the areas of strategic audit planning, performance audit, data science, and communications and publishing.   

Who we are looking for

We have an opportunity for a talented and motivated data science expert who looks for purpose in their work and is committed to creating better lives for Victorians.    

Our people come from a diverse range of backgrounds – but they all have a common interest in promoting confidence in the public sector.   

This role requires a technical specialist with a background in quantitative and qualitative analysis, research methods, and data science related fields. You will play a pivotal role in helping bridge the gap between technical and non-technical staff in the planning and conduct of our audits. You will also assist audit staff to identify opportunities for the inclusion of data analytics methods within audit topics to increase their impact and value. 

You will be committed to professional excellence, and the delivery of high-quality work, within budget and on time. You understand that our work must be precise and accurate, and you are comfortable with your work being subject to vigorous scrutiny and challenge. You enjoy working with a diverse range of stakeholders with a variety of technical capabilities and levels of seniority. You will have a reputation for being values led, ethical and with unwavering integrity.    

We offer a hybrid work environment where you choose what best suits your needs as well as the most appropriate mode for the work you’re doing. We provide you with a comprehensive best-practice office set-up for your home. When you work in the office at 35 Collins St, you’ll find an energy-efficient space in a city centre location with great views, activity-based working zones, secure bike storage, change rooms, lockers and easy access to transport and parking.  

Part-time and job share arrangements will be considered.  

Selection criteria

1. Demonstrated experience in planning and executing complex data analytics projects. A demonstrated ability to apply data and statistical models and techniques to the kind of qualitative, real-world problems that arise in performance auditing. 
2. A laser-focus on vigorous data quality assurance, and a willingness for your work to be subject to scrutiny and challenge. Ability and willingness to constructively contribute to the review of others’ work. Demonstrated ability to quickly assimilate new concepts and information, identify solutions to complex issues, and contribute to decision-making where diverse interests need to be considered. 
3. Excellent data communication skills, confidently conveying ideas and information in a clear and interesting manner that drives understanding and performance audit outcomes. A demonstrated ability to communicate meaningful data insights and reinforce qualitative story telling with quantitative results. 
4. Developed interpersonal, collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills. Operates in a transparent way, using networks and various communication channels to foster collaboration. 
5. Cooperates and works well with others in pursuit of team goals, collaborates and shares information, shows consideration, concern and respect for others’ feelings and ideas, accommodates and works well with the different working styles of others. 
6. Follows through on commitments, even when working across multiple pieces of work. Recognises and acknowledges mistakes, taking the initiative to address errors and seeking advice to improve.  

To apply

Please click on 'Apply now' and submit your application. Your application should include a current resume and a covering letter, including a brief statement against the key selection criteria for the role.    

For more information, please email our recruitment team on recruitment@audit.vic.gov.au   

Please note applications close on 14 October 2024 at 11:59pm  

Join our team and be part of an organisation that values respect, accountability, innovation, and collaboration.  

At VAGO, we embrace diversity as a catalyst for innovation and success and are committed to creating an inclusive workforce that values individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. By fostering a culture of accessibility and equal opportunity, we aim to break down barriers and provide a platform for all employees to thrive.  

Recent research indicates that women are less likely to apply for a role if they do not meet all of the stated selection criteria for a role. We recognise that the best candidate may have areas in which they are outstanding as well as areas that require some development. Please don't be discouraged if you don't meet 100% of the selection criteria - we want the best candidate for VAGO in the long run.  

We particularly encourage applications from individuals of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and individuals who may face diversity or disability related barriers in employment. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the recruitment process, please contact our friendly recruitment team on recruitment@audit.vic.gov.au