Positions in this series are responsible for performing scientific research, design, statistical or data analysis, or analytical projects in a specialty field. Develops and designs complex original operations research using scientific, statistical, or mathematical analytical methods to investigate complicated issues and identify and solve problems.

This is the entry level for advanced scientific research and analysis work. Conducts primarily non-routine research studies.

Positions at this level are characterized by the following:

• Assigned research work applies specialized professional-level research skills and knowledge which usually includes lack of documented methodology or standardized procedures.
• Positions deal primarily with unique or one-time studies; or studies that deal with complex correlational analyses or other advanced statistical modeling techniques.
• In larger research units, take guidance from higher level investigators or technical administrators; may recommend policy options based upon research findings (particularly in smaller units).

Under supervision or as directed, reviews and designs research studies: e.g., studies relationship between seasonal variations and admissions to institutions, develops rating scales sensitive to changes in behavior following drug administration, studies effects of varying kinds of reward on training of the intellectually disabled, etc.;

Provides core data to the department or agency for specialized research programs;

Develops questionnaires and code sheets suitable for program evaluation; analytically evaluates programs; participates in demographic forecasting and tracking program areas;

Performs statistical analyses of data: e.g., analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, varying kinds of correlations, independent and correlated t-test, nonparametric statistics, etc.; if in an agency, serves as a resource person for staff doing research and assists them with problems in regard to design, methodology, and statistical analyses;

Assists in the design of methodologically sound research studies, may direct research support staff who are part of their research team;

Consults with staff concerning the planning and logistics necessary to conduct successful research within the agency;

Consults with supervisor in regard to problems of budget, personnel, purchasing, etc.;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: the body of knowledge in specialty field; experimental research designs appropriate to field; statistical and research theory and techniques.

Ability to: initiate and plan analytic research; provide research; develop research methodology and methods of data collection; interpret data; speak and write effectively.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

A Master's degree in relevant specialty, technical or qualitative field; and one year experience in experimental, analytical, or theoretical research in identified specialty area.

OR

Equivalent education/experience in relevant field.

New class (replacing existing Research Investigator 1, code 0424): 1-15-82
New class code: (formerly 04150) effective July 1, 2007
(06/26/2008) General language revision to Desirable Qualifications, last paragraph. Last paragraph former language reads: In all instances, candidates must have had at least three articles (not necessarily as sole author) either published or in press, i.e., definitely accepted. These articles may not be the publication of a Master's thesis.

Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.

Added class series concept, revised definition, distinguishing characteristics, typical work, knowledge and abilities, and desirable qualifications; base range increase from 52 to 58: adopted June 23, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.