Research Data Specialist (Research Data Specialist I)

Job Description and Duties Under general direction of the Director of Research, the Research Data Specialist I (RDS I) supports the design and analysis of research assignments and projects with varying levels of complexity, including, but not limited to policy and literature reviews as well as the organization and analysis needed to support annual reporting of statewide accountability and institutional effectiveness measures for the California Community Colleges. The RDS I will act as a junior analyst and resource of student and institutional data and information around student access, success, completion, post-completion outcomes, and other relevant system operations. Interested Candidates may establish eligibility by taking the experience and education exam here: CalCareers How did you hear about this position? Tell us in a brief survey. Employees must reside in CA for a job appointment. The Chancellor’s Office supports telework, recognizing that in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to the headquarters office in Sacramento if an urgent need arises.The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on the Chancellor’s Office’s evolving telework policy. You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. Special Requirements The Statement of Qualification (SOQ) is a narrative discussion of how your education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify you for the position. The SOQ serves as documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. The SOQ must be no more than a maximum of two pages typed, single-spaced, in 12 pt. Arial font. Indicate your name, the position number and "Statement of Qualifications" at the top of the page. The SOQ must be organized and numbered in the order of the desirable qualifications. 1. Describe your experience using data analysis tools such as SQL, R, Python, Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms to solve complex problems, automate workflows, or produce actionable insights. 2. Describe your experience collaborating with stakeholders who do not have a data or technical background. Explain your approach to communicating complex concepts, ensuring understanding, gathering requirements, and supporting decision-making. 3. Describe your experience developing metrics, indicators, or measurement frameworks. What are some key considerations to your approach? Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate: • Attention to detail and documentation of methodological decision-making and work-flow processes. • Knowledge of database structure and ability to query/utilize complex data systems • Coursework and/or work experience in quantitative or qualitative methods for use in social science or educational research. • Demonstrated skills in creating, combining, analyzing and presenting data using SQL, SAS, STATA, R and/or other programming languages and statistical packages. • Experience conveying quantitative and qualitative research findings in oral, written, tabular, graphical, and other visual formats. • Knowledge of research and planning issues relevant to postsecondary institutions. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with moderate direction.