The starting salary is $71,028 to $92,232, depending upon qualifications. The full salary range for this position is up to $112,958.

Are you passionate about harnessing data to drive smart city transformation, elevate government performance, and foster a culture of transparency and innovation? The Town of Normal’s Innovation & Technology (I&T) Department is looking for a mission-driven and collaborative Data Specialist to shape how data empowers our community.

In this exciting role, you will lead end-to-end data initiatives—from collecting and transforming data to visualizing insights and developing data governance frameworks. You’ll work closely with departments to identify opportunities for data-driven improvements, build capacity through training, and champion open data and transparency efforts.

You will also play a critical role in advancing the Town’s What Works Cities Certification—a prestigious national standard for data-informed governance—by supporting assessments, performance tracking, and aligning Town practices with best-in-class benchmarks. Additionally, you’ll contribute to shaping the Town's Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy and integrating data into cutting-edge technologies like IoT and digital twins.

If you thrive in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment and are excited to use data for the public good, this role is for you!

• Data Collection, Integration & Automation
  • Extract, transform, and load (ETL) data from multiple sources and systems.
  • Develop automated data pipelines and scripts to streamline data workflows.
  • Integrate data from APIs, databases, and third-party platforms.
  • Maintain a comprehensive data inventory across departments, including metadata, source, and access levels.
• Analysis & Visualization
  • Conduct exploratory and statistical analysis to uncover trends and patterns.
  • Build interactive dashboards and reports using Power BI, ArcGIS, or similar tools.
  • Develop predictive models and perform hypothesis testing to support strategic initiatives.
  • Communicate findings effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Data Governance & Quality Assurance
  • Assist in implementing data policies, including data classification and open data policies.
  • Evaluate and improve data quality, completeness, and readiness for publication.
  • Ensure datasets meet compliance and security standards such as PII and sensitive data.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration, Training & Certification Support
  • Partner with departments to define KPIs and metrics that align with business goals and support accountability measures.
  • Lead the Town's Data Innovation Team (iTeam) and create resources to improve data literacy.
  • Provide technical documentation, user guides, and process maps.
  • Support transparency by contributing to open data initiatives and public-facing dashboards.
• Innovation, Research & Smart City Integration
  • Collaborate on the Town’s pursuit and maintenance of What Works Cities Certification by contributing to data assessments, benchmarks, and reporting deliverables.
  • Help track progress toward certification standards and assist in aligning departmental practices with What Works Cities’ data-driven governance criteria.
  • Monitor industry trends and recommend enhancements to the Town’s data strategy.
  • Contribute to integration of data with smart city tools such as IoT sensors, digital twins, or AI-based analytics.
  • Participate in special projects and assume additional responsibilities as needed.

• Technical Skills
  • Intermediate to advanced understanding of
    1. SQL skills and experience working with relational databases;
    2. data visualization platforms (e.g., Power BI, ArcGIS).;
    3. Python or other scripting languages and automated data workflows;
  • Working knowledge of
    1. HTML and CSS
    2. windows PowerShell.
    3. connectors such as APIs, and ODBC;
    4. Machine Learning and Large Language Models (LLMs);
    5. Generative AI models & frameworks e.g. OpenAI family, open source LLMs, Dall-e
    6. DevOps tools like GIT
  • High level proficiency with ETL tools and techniques, reporting systems, and data modeling.
  • Understanding data classifications, privacy regulations, and governance standards.
• Analytical & Communication Skills
  • Ability to conduct statistical analysis and interpret complex datasets.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills, including ability to translate data concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong documentation, report writing,
  • Ability to teach data concepts and tools to various audience.
• Organizational & Project Skills
  • Excellent time management and multitasking abilities.
  • Detail-oriented with a strong sense of accountability.
  • Self-starter with a collaborative mindset and ability to work across departments.
  • Ability to ask the right questions and understand business needs
• Other Requirements
  • Must possess a valid Driver’s License.
  • Must pass a criminal background check and polygraph.
  • Public sector experience is a strong plus.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in data science, mathematics, statistics, economics, or computer science or four years of relevant data management and/or data as a service experience. Completed coursework, training, or continued education in a related field, including but not limited to, Data Analytics, Computer Science, and/or skills-based training.