Research Scientist

Agency Information The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees primary and secondary public education in Texas and is committed to improving outcomes for all public school students by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems across the state. Core Values We are Determined: We are committed and intentional in pursuing our primary purpose of improving outcomes for students. We are People-Centered: We strive to attract, develop, and retain committed talent that reflects the diversity of Texas, with each individual contributing to our shared vision for students. We are Learners: We seek evidence, reflect on outcomes, and continuously improve in pursuit of excellence for students. We are Servant Leaders: We are public servants committed to improving opportunities for students and supporting those who serve them. Job Description The Evaluation and Research Scientist works in the Evaluation Activities Unit within the Division of Research and Analysis. This role performs complex data analysis; conducts research and evaluation activities; and develops, implements, and manages multiple, simultaneous internal and external projects. The work associated with this position includes the day-to-day project management of third-party contracted evaluation vendors. The position also involves responding to immediate research and evaluation needs in support of commissioner priorities; conducting research, data analyses, and in-house program evaluations; and preparing reports that fulfill agency needs and statutory requirements, including those requested by the state legislature. This role provides technical assistance to agency staff as needed. In support of evaluation projects, the Evaluation and Research Scientist verifies the appropriateness and accuracy of research designs, instruments, data, analysis plans, methodological approaches, advanced statistical analyses, and the presentation of findings in written reports or proposals for evaluation projects conducted by third-party vendors and/or through internal efforts. This position also reviews and/or contributes to the preparation of written reports in support of evaluation activities. The Evaluation and Research Scientist develops, or collaborates in the development of, methodologies and statistical models, and conducts and interprets statistical analyses for internal program evaluations and ad hoc commissioner requests. The ideal candidate has experience with SAS programming, knowledge of research methods and statistical analysis, is detail-oriented and self-driven, and works effectively both independently and in a team environment. The selected candidate will participate in project and division planning and will work under minimal supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Please note that all relevant experience, coursework, training, and/or workshops should be clearly indicated in your application. This position requires up to 5% travel, based on business needs, to support program initiatives, collaboration, and operational priorities. Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. Essential Functions Job duties are not limited to the essential functions mentioned below. You may perform other functions as assigned. 1- Vendor Management: Provide feedback on contracted work products (e.g., evaluation plans, statistical analysis plans, data collection instruments, reports) and conduct the day-to-day management of evaluation activities for the length of the contract. 2 - Prepare Reports and Summarize Research Findings: Prepare concise and comprehensive reports and summarize research findings for dissemination to diverse audiences including the commissioner of education, Texas Legislature, TEA management and program staff, as well as the general public. 3 - Perform Data Analysis and Evaluation Tasks: Assists with the production of on-time, high-quality and accurate analytical tasks, through documenting, implementing and understanding business decisions to create clean, well-documented SAS code that follow the units processing rules, as well as responding to ad hoc data analysis and internal evaluation requests. 4 - Perform Quality Control Checks: Perform accuracy and quality control checks of unit products, including those generated by other team members, with a high degree of quality and accuracy. 5 - Provide Technical Assistance: Provide technical assistance, data analysis, and consultation to internal agency staff and external contracted vendors. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university Experience: At least three (3) years of experience in conducting or managing research or program evaluations with knowledge of designing and conducting statistical analyses, managing complex projects, or designing/implementing data collection instruments. A minimum of one (1) year in SAS programming or a similar programming software required. Substitutions: Education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis. Other Qualifications Share the belief that all Texas students can achieve at high levels and are able to succeed in college, career, or the military Experience with the research and evaluation process (e.g., problem identification, evaluation design, methods, data collection and management, statistical techniques, analysis, and reporting) Experience compiling and querying data from large, institutional databases and state education data sources (e.g., PEIMS, STAAR, etc.) preferred Experience working with the SAS programming language Ability to successfully manage projects and meet deadlines, analyze problems and develop solutions, produce high-quality research, and express ideas clearly, verbally and in written work, in a fast-paced environment Experience planning and implementing research projects and synthesizing data analyses and results Ability to process information logically, and manage multiple, simultaneous tasks Ability to maintain good working relationships with a variety of people and groups including external vendors, school district personnel, and TEA staff A desire to self-reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve Experience with MS Office suite, especially Word, Excel and Outlook New hires, rehires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees within the same classification. Offers are based on the candidate's experience and qualifications and consider internal pay equity across employees performing similar work. The top half of the posted salary range is generally reserved for candidates whose qualifications exceed the role's requirements. The maximum of the range is typically reserved for candidates who significantly exceed the required and preferred qualifications. Benefits TEA employees receive a comprehensive benefits package through the State of Texas and the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS), supporting health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include: Retirement through ERS and employer-paid health insurance for eligible employees Optional dental, vision, and dependent coverage Paid state holidays, vacation leave, sick leave, and longevity pay Wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and professional development opportunities Eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program To learn more about benefits available to State of Texas employees, please review the State of Texas Employee Benefits brochure and visit the TEA Compensation and Benefits page . Military/Veteran Information Applicants eligible for Military Employment Preference will be considered in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. To explore how military experience may align with this role, applicants may review Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes within the State's Position Classification Plan. Please refer to the Military Crosswalk and select the occupational category that most closely corresponds with the classification listed in this job posting. Additional Information TEA is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or veteran status. TEA does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of employment visas. This position requires the applicant to meet Agency standards and criteria which may include passing a pre-employment criminal background check, prior to being offered employment by the Agency. To learn more about working at TEA, including hiring timelines, process details, and candidate resources, please visit the Careers at TEA page . #J-18808-Ljbffr