Overview
The Principal Planning Analyst will work on the Planning and Innovation team in the Office of Analytics, Technology and Planning (ATP) within Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS). The ATP Planning and Innovation team works with DHS leaders to develop outcomes-focused plans and budgets responsive to community/client needs, informed by evidence-based practice, and that consider external conditions such as funding availability and changes in government policy/legislation.
The Principal Planning Analyst reports to ATP’s Chief Planning Officer, acting as a strategic thought partner and offering guidance and support to other Planning Analysts. The Principal Planning Analyst is results-focused and highly adaptable. They have superior writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills, and they are adept at driving collaborative projects.
This position:
- Coordinates internal planning processes that: engage stakeholders across DHS; use data and other evidence for decision-making; and challenge DHS to use its resources to significantly impact key outcomes for people who are most vulnerable.
- Prepares written plans that include clear, measurable outcomes and meet the requirements of DHS’s governing and funding agencies.
- Analyzes gaps in services, performance, and processes, using both quantitative and qualitative information.
- Researches and writes grant applications for government and foundation funding to support innovation.
- Researches and writes program evaluations and reports to support quality improvement.
- Works with leaders and practitioners to design new programs and redesign existing ones, to meet specific goals and objectives.
- Develops recommendations for action backed by evidence that includes organizational and client data, research literature, and practitioner/stakeholder input.
- Understands the external conditions that impact DHS’s work, including the availability and parameters of DHS funding.
- Supports decision-making by gathering and presenting key information and facilitating discussions with leadership.
- Manages new projects and initiatives during their initial implementation and supports the transition of the initiative to a permanent lead.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Superior writing and presentation skills, including the ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences, from front line staff to organizational leaders.
- Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in preparing and interpreting budget information.
- Ability to synthesize data and information from various sources as part of problem-solving efforts and to form and substantiate recommendations for action.
- Ability to deliver high-quality work products with limited levels of supervision, within required time frames, using a collaborative approach.
- Approach to projects that is flexible and adaptable while always maintaining focus on organizational objectives and desired outcomes.
- Basic knowledge of project management principles. Advanced knowledge/ certification a plus.
- Knowledge of, or willingness/ability, to learn and respond quickly on subject areas within the human services field.
- Ability to listen to and respect people with varied experiences.
- Ability to sit at a computer for long periods (2 plus hours) and traverse the building carrying up to 10 pounds (files, books, etc.).
Education/Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in a related field, plus 2 years of previous experience working in program planning or program development. Master’s degree preferred.
-OR-
Any equivalent combination of education and experience which meets the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Please provide a cover letter, customized to this role, that explains your interest in the job and why you are well-suited for it.
If hired for a position, candidates would work for Allegheny County Department of Human Services and be employed by Great Lakes Behavioral Research Institute.
About Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS)
In Allegheny County, we appreciate people who think big, act boldly, and care about making a difference. You don’t have to be from here to feel at home, or to make your mark. With only 1.3 million people in the County, it’s small enough for motivated people to get things done. Allegheny County’s Department of Human Services (DHS) is a perfect place to get things done that directly affect people in need in a positive and lasting way. We help children grow up safer and healthier, older adults remain able to live independently, and neighborhoods to thrive. Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of people in Allegheny County.
DHS is the largest agency in Allegheny County government, with a budget of nearly $1 billion. DHS serves over 200,000 people a year through services that include: Protecting children and youth from abuse and neglect and preventing future occurrences of maltreatment; improving child wellness through family support, home visiting, early intervention and in-home services; providing treatment for behavioral health issues such as substance use disorders and mental illness; managing the care of adults with intellectual disabilities; preventing unnecessary nursing home stays; and services that prevent homelessness and provide shelter and housing for families and individuals.
Why DHS?
- It is innovative. Most recently, the national attention and awards we’ve gotten are for how DHS integrates data and uses it to improve the safety and well-being of children through predictive tools that support front-line staff in making decisions.
- DHS is committed to equity – for our staff, our providers, and community members.
- DHS values strong, assertive leaders. We do not hire yes-people.
- You can make a big impact here. We stand out as one of the best human services organizations in the country. But we need problem-solvers, innovators, and terrific leaders to make sure we are smart in how we use our funding so that we reach the people who most need our help to make their lives better.
DHS strives to be the kind of place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come to grow and do their best work.