Definition

Performs scientific research, design, statistical or data analysis or analytical projects in a specialty field. Develops and designs complex original operations research using scientific, statistical, data mining, or mathematical analytical methods to investigate complicated issues and identify and solve problems. This is the highest level of expertise of scientific data research and analysis.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Performs highly complex, expert level professional statistical data research and consultation.  Responsible to make value out of the most complex data, positions are characterized by the following:

• Such data analytical research work requires in-depth and specialized subject-matter expertise obtained through specialized training and job experience.  As such, positions function as technical expert to other research personnel on specific project subject-matter questions.
• Positions translate research and analytical project theory into working hypotheses which, in turn, are used to define analytical research questions.
• Positions define project scope, goals, objectives, methods and plans; later may adapt such as indicated to meet program changes.

Typical Work

Defines the analytical research project; consults with agency management to determine need, goals and objectives that models and frames business scenarios that impact business decisions and processes;

 

Guides inquiry process with stakeholders;

 

Analyzes and applies related data analysis and validates data for research conducted by others in specialty field to develop statistical and analytical reports of a complex nature; 

 

Designs or directs design of computerized reporting systems; supervises gathering and analysis of highly complex data and preparation of periodic or special statistical and narrative reports; coordinates work of unit with that of data processing and other groups;

 

Studies proposed program changes to ascertain costs, equity, social desirability, and administrative feasibility; studies department programs to determine effectiveness and need for changes; drafts proposed legislation;

 

Determines the development, design, implementation, maintenance and modification of complex research projects involving data collection, algorithms, data manipulation, analytical modeling, data warehousing, and computer applications and reporting systems;

 

Develops innovative and effective approaches to solve client’s analytics problems and communicates results and methodologies;

 

Performs analysis using advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations investigate complex issues, identify and solve problems and make better decisions;

 

Trains and supervises other professional consultants involved in data research, data mining, statistical analytics, or data analysis work; Prioritize, assign and schedule research activities of subordinate staff;

 

Positions also carry responsibility for final reports, conclusions and recommendations; and for all technical and/or supervisory decisions related to their assigned research or statistical responsibilities;

 

Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of: The body of logic principles, practices, and methods in the specialty field; statistical theory and techniques; research design and methods; complex methods of problem solving; purposes and objectives of agency research programs and activities.  

Ability to: develop, organize, direct difficult research; lead coordination of highly complex statistical projects; acquire data from the most complex data management systems; analyze and interpret complex data; write clearly and concisely; supervise and coordinate the work of others; deal practically and effectively with others in a staff relationship; proficient use of visualization tools, organize and prepare professional reports that Reason logically, draw valid conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.

Legal Requirement(s)

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.

Desirable Qualifications

A Masters degree in in Statistics, Science, Mathematics and/or Computer Science, or related field; and three years' demonstrated experience in one of the above areas; A Ph.D. may substitute for two years of the desired experience. 

AND 

For those positions required to supervise, experience must include at least one year of supervisory experience that may be concurrent to other required experience.

Class Specification History

New classification; adopted June 13, 2019; effective July 1, 2019.