Research Data Specialist I

Job Description and Duties

This position is advertised as a Research Data Specialist I/Research Data Specialist II. This position is also being advertised at the Research Data Specialist II level. Candidates may apply at both levels; however, a separate application must be submitted for each position. Please see JC-532360 for more details.

Why Choose Us: At DWR, you will have the advantage of numerous resources to support your work and professional growth—including training, organizational memberships, and knowledgeable and professional colleagues all of which collaborate for project success.

The Division of Engineering (DOE) provides key technical services, including civil engineering, hydraulic engineering, geotechnical engineering, geology, structural engineering, architecture, environmental sciences, safety engineering, construction management and inspection, construction cost estimating, geomatics, and real estate acquisition and management. Additional expertise in program management, project management, public works contracting, and architectural and engineering (A&E) services contracting is also fostered to support DOE’s mission. There is never a dull moment!

The Project Management Branch is responsible for the planning, leading, and organizing of the division’s Project Management Coordination, Program Control & Data Analytics, and Environmental Coordination sections. This includes providing program and project management services, budget and program control services, data management and governance, and project development and management services specific to environmental compliance.

We hope you’ll check out the Duties and Desirable Qualifications below and apply for this great career opportunity to join our team and help deliver water to over 27 million Californians as well as contribute to protecting our environment and species conservation efforts.

Duties: The successful candidate will conduct complex research for various programs within the Division of Engineering (DOE). The Research Data Specialist I (RDSI) is a subject matter expert in the State Water Project (SWP) financial policies, procedures, and rules that govern the use and reporting of SWP funding. Independently performs or coordinates the more complex data analysis, utilizing business intelligence software programs; analyzes, synthesizes, and communicates complex technical research relating to program and financial management, studies, resources, logistics, and planning; performs critical analyses; plans and carries out projects; prepares and presents technical reports; and maintains cooperative relationships with others. The individual is expected to exercise considerable judgment when making decisions and acting in accordance with Government Code, State laws, and departmental policies and procedures.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Special Requirements

Must possess a valid California driver's license when conducting State business that requires driving a vehicle.

The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is committed to its mission and employees, and we are grounded in our commitment to public safety. Regular, consistent, and predictable attendance is essential to the successful performance in this position.

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:

The successful candidate must have knowledge of research and statistical methods and the ability to develop research methodology and techniques. In addition, the successful candidate will have knowledge and experience with data analysis and tools for managing projects and workflows, developing and evaluating business process alternatives and solutions, implementing data and document management, as well as procedure and workflow development. Further, the successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to effectively manage multiple projects and changing priorities; provide innovative solutions to improve efficiencies; have excellent written and verbal communication, well developed analytical skills, and the ability to pay close attention to detail and meet deadlines; maintain excellent attendance; seek professional development; possess excellent interpersonal skills; and have a keen interest in learning about various organizations within the Department and their respective missions. Familiarity with PowerBI, SQL, R, Word, Excel, SharePoint, MS Teams, MS Copilot, and electronic data management is highly desirable. The applicant should possess the ability to work independently or in a team setting, take initiative, assume a high level of responsibility, and exercise good judgment.

Benefits

to read about the outstanding benefits offered to eligible employees. We’re also located right next to Light Rail for an easy commute – we’ll even reimburse you for a portion of your monthly public transit pass!

Personal Leave Program 2025: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned were negotiated and agreed upon by each bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact of these temporary reductions can vary based on your bargaining unit and/or federal and state tax withholdings. For additional information please visit .

Special Instructions

Submit a State Employment Application (STD 678), Resume, and a Statement of Qualifications. Please reference SAP Position #50001213 and JC-532297 in the “examination(s) or job title(s) for which you are applying” section of your application.

A Statement of Qualifications is a separate, two-page maximum, typed document in Arial 12-point font that addresses the candidate’s experience and education as it relates to the specific essential functions of this position outlined in the Job Description, duty statement, and questions below. The candidate’s name and the JC number should be included in the header of each page.

1. Discuss your experience using business intelligence or analytical tools such as Power BI, SAP, SQL, R, Python, Data Bricks, or similar platforms. Include specific examples of how you used these tools to improve business decision-making or automate workflows.
2. Describe your experience with budgeting or financial management. How did your work include data analysis?
3. Describe your experience preparing and providing training. How did you measure success?

The follow ing basis of eligibility will be considered: List eligibility, transfer, LEAP, reinstatement, and SROA/Surplus .

Failure to provide requested documents and information may result in automatic disqualification from the hiring process. Resumes, cover letters, and/or other attachments will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. The hiring unit will receive only the documents specified in the Required Application Package Documents section.

. This survey is for research purpose only and will not affect the application status.

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 required and must be included.
• Statement of Qualifications - See Special Instructions for additional details.