Research Consultant II

Full-time, in-office position located at 895 N 900 E, American Fork, Utah, 84003.

About The Role

This is a working-level research consulting role. Incumbents consult with and present directly to agency executives, local officials, legislators, or other high-ranking officials routinely. Responsibilities include forming conclusions and developing recommendations for policy, programs, and regulations. The role provides specialized expertise in research design, analysis, and data needed to examine issues, trends, and program evaluations. Incumbents design, conduct, and coordinate research projects, recommend policy options based on findings, and facilitate the use of research data to improve existing programs. Work is performed with minimal supervisory controls, and errors may have a significant impact on the agency. A wide range of knowledge in the assigned subject matter is required. Incumbents may functionally or directly supervise others.

Responsibilities

• Performs independent study and analysis of significant and critical issues of concern to USDC.
• Recommends policy options, forms conclusions, and develops recommendations based on project findings; provides detailed plans and impact analyses.
• Facilitates the use of research data to improve existing programs.
• Evaluates all aspects of research projects, project findings, and operational data regarding technical merits and implications.
• Designs, develops, and conducts a variety of research projects; determines appropriate methodologies, information sources, sampling strategies, and data-collection tools.
• Ensures compliance with applicable federal and/or state laws, regulations, agency rules, standards, and guidelines.
• Collaborates with staff to investigate incidents, gathering facts and context to support appropriate action.
• Tracks follow-up actions, including corrective measures, outcomes, and resolution status.
• Monitors system performance to ensure proper operation and identify possible problem areas.
• Interprets, clarifies, explains, and applies agency policy and procedures, business practices, federal or state laws, and regulations.
• Assists in preparing for audits or inspections related to critical incident reporting.
• Communicates with treatment teams to ensure timely and appropriate interventions.
• Reports trends and patterns of incidents to management, recommending improvements to policies or procedures as needed.
• Creates a positive environment, evaluates group processes, and recommends solutions or alternatives.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• 2 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDD).
• Intermediate level of experience using Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
• One year of professional research or data analysis experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3 years of experience working in an ICF/IID setting.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related or statistical field.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

Pay

$30.47 - $49.69 hourly wage.

Benefits

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
• Work/Life Balance: Utah prioritizes work/life balance as a vital element of its culture.

Additional Information

A criminal history background check is required. The mission of the Utah State Developmental Center (USDC) is to serve as "a statewide resource center for people with disabilities while promoting opportunity through choice and outcome-based support."