Behavioural Scientist

Do you have a strong background in the field of behavioural science, and expertise in designing and conducting research projects? Are you interested in leading strategic initiatives to build capacity and support the use of the behavioural sciences across the Ontario Public Service? Then consider this unique and exciting opportunity with the Behavioural Insights Unit.

About the Ontario Public Service (OPS):

The OPS is one of the largest employers in the province, employing more than 60,000 people. Every day we are modernizing government operations and improving public services. We have a wide range of meaningful and rewarding career opportunities in communities across Ontario.

We welcome new ideas and new people, encourage learning and development, and reward achievement. No matter the position, we live the core values of trust, fairness, diversity, inclusion, excellence, creativity, collaboration, efficiency, and responsiveness.

The OPS support career and leadership development, invest in learning opportunities, recognize team and individual achievements, and support flexible work arrangements.

In addition to flexible work arrangements, collegial and professional work culture, career growth and development and on-the-job training to help you succeed, we offer a competitive total compensation package, which includes an attractive salary.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Develop tools and resources to ensure successful implementation and sustainment of the behavioural sciences framework across the OPS
• Provide scientific expertise, strategic advice and briefings to a wide range of clients, partners and stakeholders
• Monitor trends and developments related to the use of behavioural science in public policy, in order to inform policy and program development
• Plan, design and manage research studies
• Undertake intensive and complex data analysis and interpretation
• Provide team leadership and develop work plans for multiple projects
• Develop communications strategies to disseminate information

Requirements

Technical Expertise

• You have technical practice competencies focusing on the specialized aspects of theory, principles and methodologies of behavioural science, obtained through academia or extensive work experience in the field
• You have specialized knowledge of related research (e.g. organizational behaviour, psychology, behavioural economics)
• You have experience designing and implementing rigorous evaluation methodology, including randomized controlled trials, cluster randomized trials, stepped wedge trials, difference evaluation, regression discontinuity and propensity score matching
• You have knowledge of statistical competency in at least one programming language (e.g. R, Stata, Matlab, SAS, SPSS, etc.)
• You have in-depth knowledge of the assumptions, suitability, and interpretation of analytical models
• You can use applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, graphics and databases to prepare documents, reports and presentations, and to support research and analysis

Communication and Stakeholder Relationship Management Skills

• You have superior interpersonal, collaboration, consultation and communication skills to develop effective working relationships with clients, partners and stakeholders
• You can clearly explain technical concepts and provide advice, interpretations and recommendations to a broad range of audiences
• You demonstrate strong influencing, mediation, conflict resolution, persuasion, consensus building and negotiation skills to gain support for initiatives and promote consensus among groups with competing interests
• You demonstrate political acuity and an understanding of factors impacting public policy, program or service development, legislation, implementation, as well government decision-making and approvals structures
• You can prepare and deliver complex presentations, courses, and workshops for a broad range of audiences

Research, Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

• You have advanced statistical analysis and research skills
• You have extensive experience with data collection, analysis, interpretation and reporting
• You have knowledge of evaluation methods and tools
• You have experience in designing and evaluating policy, programs or services using rigorous qualitative techniques
• You have experience conducting research in economics, psychology or sociology
• You demonstrate strong problem solving and decision-making skills
• You can assess clients' needs, formulate options, and make recommendations to resolve complex problems

Additional Information

Address: 1 English Temporary, duration up to 12 months, 438 University Ave, Toronto, Toronto Region

Compensation Group: Association of Management, Administrative and Professional Crown Employees of Ontario

Category: Policy and Analysis

Posted on: Friday, September 27, 2024

Apply by: Tuesday, October 15, 2024 11:59 pm EDT

How to Apply

• You must apply online by visiting www.ontario.ca/careers. You must enter the job id number: 220418 in the Job ID search field to locate the job ad. You can also access the job posting directly here.
• Customize your cover letter and resume to the qualifications listed on the job ad. Using concrete examples, you must show how you demonstrated the requirements for this job. We rely on the information you provide to us.
• OPS employees are required to quote their WIN EMPLOYEE ID number when applying.
• If you require a disability-related accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please contact us to provide your contact information. Recruitment services team will contact you within 48 hours.