Upstaff - Data Scientist – Senior

Data Scientist is needed in Toronto, Canada.

Client: Upstaff

Location: Toronto, ON, ca

Contract: Contract

Job Description

Our client, the Community Services Cluster within the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, is seeking two experienced Senior Data Scientists to support complex data analytics, modernization, predictive modelling, information management, and decision-support initiatives. The successful candidate will analyze large and complex datasets, develop predictive and analytical models, integrate data from multiple sources, and generate actionable insights to support business, program, regulatory, planning, and decision-making objectives. A strong background in geospatial and spatial data analysis, predictive analytics, machine learning, SQL, Python/R, data visualization, and analytics platforms such as Power BI, Tableau, R Shiny, or ArcGIS is essential.

Requirements

Mandatory Technical Skills and Experience

Data Analytics & Data Management

• Strong knowledge of information management and data management principles.
• Experience with database architecture, database management systems, relational databases, and data integration.
• Knowledge of data governance, metadata management, master data management, and data lineage.
• Experience with ETL processes, data warehousing, and data integration methodologies.
• Experience managing and analyzing structured, semi-structured, unstructured, historical, and legacy datasets.
• Knowledge of data modernization, digitization methodologies, records conversion, and data quality improvement practices.

Advanced Analytics & Data Science

• Strong proficiency in statistical analysis, mathematics, data mining, and predictive analytics.
• Extensive experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques.
• Experience developing predictive models and analytical frameworks.
• Strong understanding of research methodologies and data modelling techniques.
• Extensive experience in pattern recognition and identifying trends and relationships within complex datasets.

SQL & Programming

• Strong proficiency in Structured Query Language (SQL) for accessing, extracting, transforming, and analyzing data across multiple platforms and repositories.
• Strong hands-on experience with Python and/or R for data analysis, modelling, automation, and data transformation.
• Experience working with large and complex datasets.
• Experience using code version control systems such as Git.

Visualization & Analytics Tools

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency with analytics and visualization platforms such as:

• Power BI
• Tableau
• R Shiny
• ArcGIS
• Or equivalent reporting, visualization, and analytical platforms

Geospatial & Spatial Data – Mandatory

• Demonstrated knowledge of geospatial analysis and spatial data management.
• Experience analyzing relational databases and spatial datasets.
• Ability to analyze, integrate, and interpret both spatial and non-spatial datasets.
• Experience applying geospatial analysis techniques to support planning, compliance, reporting, and decision-making.
• Ability to communicate geospatial findings through maps, dashboards, reports, presentations, and visualization tools.

Research, Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills

• Ability to assess complex datasets and identify data quality issues.
• Experience documenting business data requirements and translating them into analytical solutions.
• Ability to identify trends, patterns, relationships, and insights within large datasets.
• Experience integrating data from multiple sources and repositories.
• Ability to develop and apply predictive models, business intelligence solutions, and geospatial analytical techniques.
• Strong ability to provide recommendations supporting evidence-based decision-making.
• Ability to apply innovative analytical approaches and emerging technologies to solve complex business problems.

Communication & Collaboration Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate complex analytical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience preparing technical documentation and analytical reports.
• Experience creating data dictionaries, source-to-target mapping documents, and data flow diagrams.
• Ability to present analytical findings through dashboards, reports, maps, and presentations.
• Strong stakeholder management, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and present recommendations to support informed decision-making.
• Proven ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and complex project environments.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

Information Management & Standards

• Knowledge of information management standards and data governance frameworks.
• Aware of accessibility requirements and applicable GO-ITS standards.
• Understanding of emerging I&IT trends and technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Statistics, Data Science, Social Sciences, Computer Science, Analytics, or a related discipline.
• Data science or analytics certifications such as:
• IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
• Google Data Engineer Certification
• Other relevant data science, analytics, AI, or machine learning certifications

Key Mandatory Requirements – Candidate Screening Checklist

Candidates must clearly demonstrate experience in the following areas:

• Data analytics and relational databases
• Geospatial analysis
• Spatial data management
• Data visualization and analytical frameworks
• Power BI, Tableau, R Shiny, ArcGIS, or equivalent analytics platforms
• Analysis, integration, and interpretation of both spatial and non-spatial datasets
• Predictive modelling and analytical frameworks
• Business intelligence solutions
• Geospatial analysis techniques
• SQL
• Python and/or R
• Statistical analysis and data mining
• Machine learning and AI
• Large and complex datasets
• Data integration and ETL
• Data quality assessment
• Data governance and information management
• Excellent communication and stakeholder collaboration skills

Additional Information

Location: Toronto, Ontario – 56 Wellesley Street

Work Arrangement: 100% Onsite (5 Days per Week)

Contract Start Date: October 26, 2026

Contract End Date: October 5, 2027

Extension: Up to 125 business days (1 extension option), subject to client approval and Master Service Agreement extension

Security Clearance: No Clearance Required