Research Specialist V
About The Position
The Research Specialist (RS) V provides key research, analytical and reporting functions for the Human Services Programs team, Office of Data, Analytics, and Performance (DAP), management, legislative entities, and HHSC constituents to support policy development and program evaluation. The RS V reports to the Manager of Human Services Programs in collaboration with staff. The RS V develops and implements highly advanced research on agency programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and TANF; plans and designs study procedures for program evaluation; applies advanced statistical methods to health and human services related eligibility data; coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis, and/or reporting; writes advanced scripts and code for computer based statistics applications. To enhance understanding of health and human service agencies, programs and issues, this position prepares a variety of reports, studies, and other deliverables for the administration and policy analysts containing analyses of health and human services data, the methods and procedures used, and the relevant sources referenced. The RS V provides consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in developing methods and strategies for more effective reporting of data and analyses, and provides for testing and evaluation of newly developed knowledge, methods, and techniques. This position will coordinate the work of others and works closely with HHSC IT to define and develop the data systems necessary to fulfill the functions of the unit.
Requirements
- 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, Food Stamps, Medicaid data) as well as data limitations.
- Knowledge of Internet and World Wide Web.
- Skill in using SAS, SPSS, or other statistical software.
- Skill in using ACCESS, SQL, or other database management software.
- Skill in using EXCEL or other spreadsheet software.
- 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.
- A minimum of four years college level education or graduation from an accredited college or university in social and behavioral sciences, natural sciences, or related field.
- Experience analyzing data using computer software package applications including, but not limited to, SPSS, SAS or SQL.
- Four or more years work experience with collection, analyses, and/or dissemination of health and/or human services data.
- College level education and work experience may substitute for each other, up to four years.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree or higher preferred.
Responsibilities
- Plans and/or conducts highly advanced research on the agency’s programs.
- Plans and designs study procedures for program evaluation such as TANF, Food Stamps, and Medicaid related programs.
- Develops and implements research methods and analytical procedures.
- Assesses validity of statistical methods and/or procedures for appropriate application.
- Applies advanced statistical methods to health and human services related data.
- Coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis, and/or reporting.
- Writes advanced scripts and code for computer based statistics applications.
- Prepares a variety of reports, studies, and other deliverables containing analyses of health and human services data related to TANF, Food Stamps, and Medicaid related programs, the methods and procedures used, and relevant sources referenced for the administration and policy analysts, Texas Legislature, Governor’s Office, other state agencies, and special interest groups.
- Provides consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in developing methods and strategies for effective reporting of data and analyses.
- Provides for testing and evaluation of newly developed knowledge, methods, and techniques.
- Defines requirements for development/modification of agency interface files and tests for accuracy, reliability, and validity.
- Consults in policy development and revision to determine impact on reporting capabilities and current/future research.
- Statewide travel will be required.
Benefits
- 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees
- A defined benefit pension plan
- Generous time off benefits
- Numerous opportunities for career advancement
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
