Research Data Specialist I

Job Description And Duties Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career? Join the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and be part of an organization that serves as a leader in emergency management and homeland security through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. Under general direction of the Supervisor II, the Research Data Specialist I (RDS I) works with Cal OES program staff to identify and resolve database-related issues, provide enhancements to applications and dashboard products, make recommendations for process improvements and new solutions for effective program management, and deliver analytical products for both program-specific areas and general emergency response and recovery. Works with external agencies on data sharing, distribution, modeling capabilities, and integrates data sharing capability within a web environment. The incumbent is responsible for researching, assessing, and preparing applications and geospatial services, and recommending adoption of applications and authoritative data services. Plans for and performs data creation and preparation for applications for the Cal OES Common Operating Picture (COP); Concepts of Operations for situational awareness in major disasters; and other products as necessary. Performs these duties within various federal and state disaster assistance grant programs within the Cal OES Recovery Directorate including, but not limited to: the Public Assistance (PA) Disaster Grant; California Disaster Assistance Act (CDAA); Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG); Individual Assistance (IA), Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP); Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness grant (HMEP); Pre-Disaster Mitigation program (PDM); Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA); and other grant programs. The incumbent is well versed in data analysis tools and platforms within an enterprise environment with related experience in application development, integrations, data conversion, RDBMS, and web technologies. Under general direction, independently develops and designs data schemas and databases for emergency management sources and resource data. Evaluates available data and makes recommendations for additional databases needed within Cal OES. Conducts technical research and provides advice regarding application of software and data. Gathers, compiles, analyzes, and interprets data for database updates and maintenance. In alignment with CalOES Recovery strategic guidance and leadership intent, the incumbent is a customer-focused problem solver, and is innovative in researching and offering recommendations for potential consideration to management. You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement . Working Conditions This position is located in the Recovery Analytics Unit in Mather, CA. Hybrid Telework : This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule. Additional in office days may be required based on the business need. Conflict of Interest (COI) : This position is designated under the Conflict of Interest Code and is required to complete Form 700 within 30 days of appointment. Failure to comply with the Conflict of Interest Code requirements may void the appointment. Department Information The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture by hiring and retaining individuals from a variety of backgrounds and personal experiences. Our employees are empowered with the tools and resources necessary to meet our mission, while continuing to expand equity and inclusion efforts at all levels of the organization. We are committed to the spirit and work required to ensure the safety and resilience of every community in California. Cal OES is an emergency response, homeland security, and disaster recovery agency and as a result, is a dynamic and exciting place to work in a team-oriented environment. Cal OES provides training to enhance the understanding of emergency and incident management to all employees. The Recovery Directorate is responsible for managing disaster recovery and providing assistance to local governments, special districts, certain nonprofit organizations, individuals, businesses and agricultural communities impacted by disasters. The Recovery Directorate ensures state and federal support are provided in an efficient and timely manner throughout the recovery process. The Recovery Directorate is comprised of three sections — Recovery Operations, Hazard Mitigation, and Interagency Recovery Coordination. Recovery personnel are responsible for assisting in the management of statewide disaster recovery efforts, as well as assisting agricultural communities, businesses, certain nonprofit organizations, individuals, local governments and special districts impacted by disasters. In the event of an emergency, employees may be contacted and requested to report to work in the event of an emergency. This contact may be outside of your normal working hours (evenings/nights, weekends, and holidays). This service may require irregular work hours, work locations other than the official duty location, and may include duties other than those specified in your official position description. Travel requirements in support of emergency operations may be extensive in nature (weeks to months), with little advance notice, and you may be required to relocate to emergency sites. More information may be found here:Recovery Directorate | California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Department Website: 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: Experience independently designing and implementing complex research or statistical analysis projects. Proficiency in analyzing large datasets and converting raw data into actionable insights for program decision-making. Experience performing data integration, data conversion, and developing or maintaining relational database structures (RDBMS). Hands-on experience building or maintaining geospatial datasets and services for use in enterprise applications. Skill in using data visualization platforms such as Tableau to communicate complex data clearly. Experience using automation tools or basic scripting languages such as Python to streamline workflows or support analytical tasks. Experience developing documentation for project management, workload tracking, or technical specifications. Strong understanding of emergency management concepts, particularly in planning, response, or recovery analysis. Familiarity with federal and state disaster assistance grant programs (e.g., PA, CDAA, FMAG, IA, HMGP, HMEP, PDM, FMA). Ability to research, assess, and recommend data applications, web tools, or new analytical capabilities for organizational use. Experience working with cross-functional teams or external partner agencies on data sharing, modeling, or system integration. Experience preparing analytical products for executive leadership or operational decision-makers. Strong ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines. Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities, high-pressure environments, and urgent operational needs during disasters. Experience coordinating with IT staff on technical standards, data governance, or enterprise system integration. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including clear writing and effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Benefits Cal OES employees are eligible for a number of benefits and working for us is a great opportunity to join a committed team. Benefits include but are not limited to the following: Free Parking On-site Gym and Locker room Electric Carport Excellent CalPERS state pension plan 401(k) and 457(b) Plans Flexible Schedules Generous paid time off Health, dental & vision insurance for the employee or the employee’s family Investment in careers development Located near many local eateries, financial institutions, and the Light Rail Station Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website. #J-18808-Ljbffr