See Research Investigator 1

Performs highly complex, expert level professional statistical research and consultation. Responsible for making 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 staff 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.

This is the highest level of expertise of scientific research and analysis.

Defines the analytical research project; consults with agency management to determine needs, goals and objectives to refine models 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;

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;

Develops innovative and effective approaches to solve client’s analytics challenges 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 research, 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 the work of the lower levels in the series;

Performs other duties as required.

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.

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 four years’ experience in experimental, analytical, or theoretical research in identified specialty area; a Ph.D. may substitute for two years of the desired experience.


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


Equivalent education/experience in relevant field.

New classification; adopted June 13, 2019; effective July 1, 2019.
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.
Revised title (formerly Operations Research Specialist), added class series concept, and revised occupational category, definition, typical work, knowledge and abilities, and desirable qualifications; removed distinguishing characteristics; base range increase from 68 to 70: adopted June 23, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.