Research Data Specialist III

Job Description and Duties

Why Join DHCS?

The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is the backbone of California’s health care safety net. Our success is made possible by the hard work of more than 4,800 DHCS team members and through collaboration with the federal government and other state agencies, counties, and partners for the care of low-income families, children, pregnant women, older adults, and persons with disabilities. This is an exciting opportunity to join our diverse team in the following role. If you are interested in joining our team, apply today!

About this Role:

Under general direction, incumbents are required to determine the scope and parameters of research criteria and perform the most complex research and data analysis projects involving: research and development of innovative or undefined methods for collecting, analyzing, and reporting data; identifying new strategies or sources for collecting data; coordinating data migration efforts, and assessing patterns to forecast future impacts and trends. The outcomes are used to advise department officials and state leaders in areas where programs or systems are being proposed or existing programs with a major impact. Senior departmental management view these incumbents as individuals who are widely recognized as having distinguished herself/himself in a special field of knowledge. Incumbents serve as the department's top expert in that field. Incumbents may advise executive staff on complicated research projects and studies.

Have questions and/or need assistance? Contact: View email address on us.fitly.work, we are here to help walk you through the state hiring process!

This position is subject to the Department's Conflict of Interest Code and filing a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) when assuming office, annually while in office, and upon leaving office.

Electronic applications are highly encouraged.

Per CCR 249.3, this job control may be used to fill subsequent vacancies.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

Please see the Telework and Salary Information section below for telework, reporting location, and temporary statewide salary reduction details.

Special Requirements

Simple Application Steps:

If you are interested in this position, complete the following simple steps:

Review the education and experience minimum qualifications (MQ’s) for the Research Data Specialist III. See Minimum Requirement section above. 

Complete the state application by clicking “Apply Now” above. See below for detailed application instructions.

Submit your application package with all required documents - see the "Required Application Package Documents" section below.

Research Data Specialist III (RDS III) exam link:

Individuals who claim list eligibility must have reachable placement on the appropriate certification list for a classification they apply to.

Education: If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include a copy of your diploma/degree and/or unofficial/informal transcripts for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment.

***The position requires a Live Scan prior to being hired***

Successful candidates are required to submit to a background investigation process, including mandatory electronic fingerprinting via the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Live Scan system.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

This position requires the incumbent to have and maintain good rapport, consistent and regular attendance.

Good Analytical Skills
Understanding of Medi-Cal data
Excellent communication and writing skills
Planning Skills

Please indicate your eligibility in the area of the application where you enter the position name and number for which you are applying.

Benefits

DHCS is dedicated to creating an innovative workplace for its team members that is inclusive, diverse, and interactive! Here are a few of the ways we stay engaged with our team:

Continuous and ongoing training

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program activities

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Additionally, as a team member of the State of California, you may be eligible for many benefits, such as:

Medical, including health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid Holidays and vacation/leave

Defined retirement program

Savings Plus Program (401(k), 457)

Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts

Full benefits information can be found on CalHR's?California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary

Statement of Qualifications Requirement Section

This position is currently eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and is subject to change consistent with DHCS’ Telework Program and Government Code sections 14200 – 14203. Telework is available to California residents, and proof of residency may be required.

Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee’s designated office and residence subject to regulations and bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

Salary: Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the temporary Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee receive a temporary reduction in pay in exchange for PLP 2025 leave credits. The temporary salary reduction percentage and the number of PLP 2025 leave credits are based on the position’s associated bargaining unit. The salary range(s) included in this job advertisement do not include the temporary salary reduction. Please reach out to the hiring unit contact listed on this job advertisement for details.

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 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.