Research Data Specialist III
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Apply to Research Data Specialist III at Government Operations AgencyJob details
- Location
- Sacramento County, California
- Work type
- Hybrid
- Compensation
- $100,704 - $129,840/yr
- Posted
- 2 days ago
- Apply on
- calcareers.ca.gov
About this role
Job Description and Duties
Under the general direction of the Secretary and Undersecretary of the Government Operations Agency, the Research Data Specialist III (RDS III) independently performs complex data analysis and analytical studies in support of GovOps oversight of government programs across its departments, boards, and offices. Working closely with the Secretary, Undersecretary, and Deputy Secretaries, the RDS III analyzes statewide initiatives such as procurement reform, state budgets, program modernization, and operational efficiency; identifies program and policy insights; and presents findings and recommendations to executive stakeholders. The RDS III serves as a data and analytics subject expert, prepares analysis for executive and external reporting, and advances data-informed decision-making across GovOps. This position works independently and does not supervise or serve in a lead capacity over other staff.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
This position provides hybrid telework opportunities, with employees required to work in-person at least two days per week. This is subject to change based on operational needs.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.Additional Documents
Position Details
Department Information
Please note, CalHR provides contracted Human Resources services for California Government Operations Agency (GovOPS) and is not an E-Verified employer.
Special Requirements
All interested applicants are required to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ). Please provide direct responses to each of the numbered items listed below. Applicants must number and include the full text of the SOQ items in their response. Please include specific examples of your education, training, and/or experience. SOQs should be limited to a maximum of two (2) pages, single-spaced, twelve-point Arial font.
1. Describe your experience utilizing advanced data tools (ie: Python, SQL, and PowerBI) to analyze large datasets. Provide a specific example of a time you created a dashboard, visual, or report that summarized complex operational data. How did your findings influence a specific decision or policy adjustment?
2. Describe a situation where you had to evaluate a program's performance or operational efficiency. What methodology did you use to gather and analyze the data, and how did you communicate your results to stakeholders to support reform or improvement?
3. Describe a time you managed a complex or sensitive project with minimal supervision. How did you ensure your analysis was accurate and aligned with high-level strategic goals, and how did you present your findings to executive-level staff to ensure they were "data-informed"?
For helpful guidance on writing an effective SOQ, please see our Work4CA guide.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 10/12/2026Who May Apply
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
- School Transcripts
- Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and must be included. Please see the Special Requirements section for instructions.
Desirable Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining executive-level dashboards and interactive visualizations using PowerBI (or similar tools) to turn complex data into actionable insights.
- Proficiency in SQL and scripting languages like Python for data extraction, manipulation, and automation of large, cross-departmental datasets.
- Experience establishing and maintaining data protocols, ensuring data integrity, and conducting quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) on large datasets.
- Proven ability to synthesize highly technical or voluminous data into concise, non-technical briefing papers, executive summaries, and policy recommendations for high-level stakeholders.
- Experience performing operational efficiency studies, budget analysis, or performance measurement within a government or complex organizational setting.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:RA Coordinators
(916) 324-3235
[email protected]
Additional Application Information
Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method for applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.
- Electronic Submission: Application and any required applicable documents may be submitted electronically through CalCareers account. The application packages must be received electronically by 11:59 p.m. on the final filing date as stated on the job vacancy announcement.
- U.S Postal Service Mail: Application and any applicable required documents may be submitted by mail. The envelope must be postmarked before or on the final filing date as stated on the job vacancy announcement.
Per CCR 249.3 we may fill additional positions from this recruitment.
Examination Information
Take the online Research Data Specialist III Examination to become list eligible for this position.
The Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) is an optional pathway to state civil service for people with disabilities. Visit the CalHR LEAP page for additional information.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.