Data Management Specialist

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Data Management Specialist to support the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Head Start (OHS).

In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality, integrity, and accessibility of program data that enables federal staff to manage Head Start and Early Head Start grants effectively. You will play a critical role in maintaining data systems, supporting workflow tools, and ensuring reliable data is available to inform operational and strategic decision-making.

This position is ideal for professionals who thrive in data governance, data quality, and operational support environments supporting complex federal programs.

This position is contingent upon contract award. The listed salary range is a general estimate based on current information and may vary. Final compensation will be determined based on qualifications and experience; candidates should not expect offers at the top of the range unless exceptionally qualified.

Key Responsibilities

Data Management & Quality Assurance

• Maintain and manage data across federal systems, databases, and workflow tools
• Perform data validation, cleansing, and quality assurance to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Support data governance processes, including documentation, standards, and controls
• Monitor and resolve data discrepancies, inconsistencies, and reporting issues

System & Workflow Support

• Support maintenance of workflow and task tracking systems (e.g., Smartsheet-based solutions)
• Manage updates to data systems supporting grants management and program oversight
• Assist in integrating and aligning data across multiple systems to ensure consistency
• Maintain records and documentation to support operational processes and audits

Data Analysis & Reporting Support

• Collect, aggregate, and organize data from various sources for reporting and analysis
• Support preparation of reports, dashboards, and data outputs for stakeholders
• Assist with identifying data trends, anomalies, and performance insights
• Contribute to development of standardized reports and recurring data products

Operational Support & Documentation

• Maintain data-related documentation, including data dictionaries, processes, and SOPs
• Support development of data assets such as tracking tools, lists, and reporting templates
• Assist in preparing materials for meetings, briefings, and leadership requests
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of data-related deliverables

Collaboration & Stakeholder Support

• Work closely with Program Specialists, Data Analysts, and federal stakeholders
• Respond to data-related inquiries and provide support for ongoing operations
• Support coordination across teams to ensure data consistency and reliability

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Information Management, Data Management, Library Science, Or a related field

Experience

• Minimum 3+ years of experience in data management or related technical support roles
• At least 3 years of relevant post-baccalaureate professional experience directly related to:
  • Data quality assurance and validation practices
  • Data governance concepts and standards
  • Record management and documentation processes
• Data quality assurance and validation
• Data governance principles knowledge
• Document management systems experience
• Metadata management experience

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Primary: Excel or Smartsheet (advanced in one of these), Data quality tools
• Secondary: SQL (basic)
• Data cleaning, metadata management, documentation
• Records management, data governance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting federal programs or grants management environments
• Familiarity with Head Start, Early Head Start, or similar human services programs
• Experience supporting workflow tracking systems or operational dashboards

Core Competencies

• Data accuracy and attention to detail
• Data governance and quality control
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Collaboration across technical and program teams
• Organization and documentation discipline
• Clear communication and responsiveness

Work Environment

• Onsite role at OHS Regional Office with potential telework flexibility
• May involve coordination with multiple teams across regions
• Opportunity to support national-level data operations and program delivery

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.