Research Specialist IV

About the role

Performs advanced (senior-level) data analysis on vital event data within the Vital Event Data Management Team within the Center for Health Statistics. Consults with internal and external customers regarding data requests. Work involves manipulating data and querying vital events databases using SAS and/or SQL and compiling into aggregated reports. Assists in preparing technical reports regarding vital event data. Assists in establishing and maintaining standard work procedures governing vital event data management processes and procedures. Creates vital events data sets for various stakeholders and requests approved via the Department’s Institutional Review Board (IRB), contracts or Memorandums of Understanding, and Data Use Agreements. Coordinates and participates in the preparation of annual and special reports.

Responsibilities

• Responds to special and complex requests for data and statistics by manipulating data and querying large relational databases; coordinates production of vital events data sets for various stakeholders and requests approved via IRB, contracts, MOUs, and DUAs (40%).
• Assists VEDM team efforts in preparing and maintaining team documentation on the State’s vital events relational databases; evaluates standards and best practices from national and state agencies & interest groups for implementation; guides and cross-trains vital events data management personnel (35%).
• Analyzes data housed in statewide relational databases using SAS, SQL Server Management Studio (SMSS) or other statistical software; prepares and provides presentations for professional organizations, governmental entities, and the public; documents procedures for data analysis and report creation (20%).
• Performs other duties as assigned (5%).

Requirements

• Prior work experience analyzing data using SAS, SQL, SPSS, R, Python or other query languages.
• Experience providing customer service via direct contact, email, or telephone.
• Experience working with confidential data or protected health information.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of secure handling of confidential data.
• Knowledge of statutes, rules, and policies.
• Knowledge of business process improvements and programmatic quality control procedures.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration and management.
• Knowledge of project management principles and tools.
• Knowledge of program planning, implementation, and analysis.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in developing and teaching training sessions for adult learners and providing consultation services.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to manage program activities and establish program goals and objectives.
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate with partners, customers, stakeholders, and a wide variety of audiences.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to demonstrate creativity, initiative, and innovation.
• Ability to establish goals and objectives, devise solutions to problems, develop and evaluate policies and procedures, and prepare clear and concise reports.

Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

Pay

$4,801.16 – $6,281.33 monthly.

Schedule

Full time; day shift; eligible for telework (currently 50% remote/50% in-office, subject to change); up to 10% travel.