Human Services Programs Research Specialist

Texas Health & Human Services Commission•Austin, TX

3d•$5,425 - $7,156•Hybrid

About The Position

Research Specialist (RS) V within the Human Services Programs team under the Office of Data, Analytics, and Performance (DAP) at the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS). This position offers the unique opportunity to drive meaningful policy decisions for essential state programs like Medicaid and SNAP using highly advanced data analytics. You will work at the forefront of health and human services innovation, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to shape data systems that directly impact millions of lives across Texas.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited 4-year college or university with major coursework in social science, business, statistics, or related field. Education and experience may be substituted for each other, for up to four years.
Three or more years of working experience in public policy and/or state/federal government assistance programs is required.
Knowledge of scientific research methods, statistical techniques, mathematics, and their application to research analysis.
Knowledge of Health and Human Services programs, policies and demographic data (e.g., TANF, SNAP, Medicaid) as well as data limitations.
Skill in using SAS, SPSS, or other statistical software.
Skill in using SQL, or other database management software.
Skill in MS Office Suite.
Skill in graphical and tabular presentation of data.
Skill in verbal and written communications.
Ability to manage, manipulate, and analyze complex databases.
Ability to plan, organize, and conduct research projects.
Ability to work in teams that may cross departments and/or agencies, and to communicate effectively with team members.
Ability to develop and interpret statistical data charts and tables.
Ability to interpret and publish research findings.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and show initiative.

Nice To Haves

Three or more years of experience with acquisition, collection, management, analyses and dissemination of health and human services-related data and/or other large datasets preferred.

Responsibilities

Developing and implementing advanced research and study designs for state programs including Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and TANF.
Applying advanced statistical methods to eligibility data and writing complex code/scripts for computer-based statistical applications.
Preparing technical reports, studies, and data deliverables to assist administration, legislative entities, and policy analysts in decision-making.
Providing data reporting guidance to internal staff, testing new analytical methodologies, and working with HHS IT to build necessary data systems.
Coordinating and guiding the work of other team members.