Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To provide research, analytical and data modelling services in support of assigned branch policy and program design
initiatives. To participate on project teams and provide data collection, analytical and research support to Senior Economists, Economists, and project teams.

Duties / Responsibilities :

1. Participates in economic research using quantitative methods to test feasibility impact of proposed air policy instruments on air emissions reduction.

2. Collects and analyzes economic data from multiple sources (municipal, provincial, inter provincial, international); prepares reports, summaries, financial, and statistical analysis to support Senior Economists, Economists and project teams.

3. Develops data models to support multi-year impact analysis of air policy instruments that will delineate (or outline) the effectiveness of emissions trading and economic incentives.

4. Participates in, and conducts assigned econometric and financial forecasting to estimate the environmental, financial, and social-economic impact of proposed policies and programs; and to assess the cost and effectiveness of initiatives.

5. Assists in the evaluation of options and alternatives in terms of economics, cost analysis, practicality, impact on industry and businesses; prepares draft reports; provides analysis and recommendations to Manager or Senior Economist.

6. Participates in impact analysis of policy/program changes; assists in the development of environmental and socioeconomic cost/benefit estimates of changes, tracks and validates actual results against estimates.

Knowledge :

Knowledge of the theories of economic forecasting, econometric and financial analysis.
Knowledge of research and analytical methods, information management, and statistical techniques to provide research and analytical support to Senior Economists, Economists and project teams: to conduct assigned qualitative/quantitative analysis involving a range of economic, environmental, and financial factors, and to develop econometric and socio-economic forecasts of the impact and effectiveness of proposed strategies for air policy instruments. General knowledge of environmental issues and trends in Ontario and other jurisdictions to conduct research; collect and analyze economic data from multiple sources and to develop and maintain databases for use by section staff and project teams. Knowledge of data sources in other jurisdictions and organizations, with the ability to assess viability and reliability of data, and its relevance to Ontario; the ability to synthesize and organize large volumes of information into databases, and produce reports and statistics in support of section research and analysis.

Analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving skills to conduct assigned economic research, analysis and modelling projects and to participate as part of a project team on larger projects. Organizational and coordination skills to manage a high volume of research and analytical studies and provide support to multiple project teams. Interpersonal skills and the ability to work cooperatively in a team environment. Oral and written communication skills to prepare analytical and statistical reports and summaries. Knowledge of database management and data modelling software to develop and maintain databases for the section. Knowledge of standard software programs and tools to conduct research and prepare own materials.

Judgement :

Position works under the general direction of the Manager, Modelling and Analysis Unit, and within the broad strategic
framework of the branch, ministry/government legislative authorities, regulations and directions in economic research
and environmental management. Position has access to senior economists for technical guidance and leadership.
Position exercises judgement in planning and conducting assigned economic research and analysis projects, in
applying appropriate research methodologies and procedures, in determining data sources, assessing relevance and
validity of data, identifying data inter-relationships, trends, and correlations, and in contacting other organizations to
verify data. Judgement is exercised in preparing research reports and studies, in presenting findings in a clear, concise manner, and in ensuring the completeness, accuracy and relevance of data and conclusions. Judgement is exercised in developing and maintaining databases for use by section staff, in ensuring that databases meet the research needs of section staff. Judgment is exercised in maintaining databases and assisting section staff in accessing and manipulating data.

Accountability - Programs :

Accountable for collection, analysis and interpretation of economic data related to air policy instruments and programs.
Accountable for the preparation of reports and summaries, and for the quality and validity of findings and recommendations. Accountable for the development and maintenance of databases.

Accountability – Personnel :

N/A

Accountability - Finance and Materials :

Accountable for recommending appropriate database software, and for the ongoing maintenance of the software (e.g.
updates, maintenance contracts).

Accountability - Impact of Errors :

Errors in data collection could result in incomplete research and ultimately impact the quality of recommendations
made by the section to senior management. Errors in data analysis could cause project delays, and result in the branch being unable to meet deadlines. Undetected analytical errors could impact the viability of project results and recommendations.

Contact - Internal :

Regular contact with senior branch staff to present reports and research findings. Regular contact with counterparts in own and other ministries to exchange and verify data. and to resolve data problems.

Contact - External :

Regular contact with counterparts in other jurisdictional governments organizations to exchange information, collect
data and to resolve data problems. Regular contact with software suppliers to maintain section database software.