Research Evaluation Scientist

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

• Direct, design, and implement research and evaluation studies and their scientific, analytic, and technical activities; design and conduct analysis of complex scientific and technical surveys, quantitative studies, and qualitative studies; formulate and apply advanced statistical or qualitative methodologies to assist management with decision-making, policy formulation, and other program functions; formulate and implement systems and methods to measure the success of the scientific and technical progress.
• Develop scientific and technical findings and recommendations for research and evaluation studies and investigations; design, draft, and provide results via study conclusions and recommendations, agency reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations for a wide audience.
• Manage and coordinate work among project team members; establish, maintain, and manage relationships with third parties/vendors; consult with clients, staff, and stakeholders to resolve issues; organize, facilitate, and participate in meetings of stakeholder groups to identify needs and build consensus and collaboration; assist in clarifying expected outcomes and managing expectations; provide direction and support to project team(s).
• Recommend and assist in the implementation of goals and objectives; evaluate operations and activities of assigned responsibilities; recommend improvements and modifications; recommend and implement policies and procedures; assist in the development and administration of the budget; participate in forecasting additional funds for staffing and resources; prepare various reports on operations and activities; contribute to fund development efforts by securing small- to mid-sized contracts and collaborating on writing grant proposals.
• Respond to and resolve confidential and sensitive inquiries; provide expert scientific and technical guidance and assistance to other departments, the general public and/or outside agencies; investigate complaints and recommend corrective actions as necessary; collaborate with other research and evaluation groups and contribute to the overall development of the county's scientific and technical research and evaluation efforts; act as representative on committees, interagency task forces, special projects, and other community outreach activities as assigned.
• Analyze and review federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures in order to ensure compliance; conduct analysis on best practices and trends, and formulate and implement recommendations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

LEVEL AND TYPE OF WORK AND/OR SUPERVISION:

Research Evaluation Scientist

• Advanced level
• Professional
• Perform the most difficult assignments requiring a higher level of responsibility, applying advanced subject knowledge, and exercising significant independent judgment and initiative.
• Receive work assignments in terms of objectives, priorities, and deadlines.
• Work is reviewed for technical accuracy, compliance to program objectives, and overall results.
• Receive direction from manager or staff.
• May exercise technical and functional supervision over staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS GUIDELINES:

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.  Requirements are determined at the time of recruitment based on responsibilities of the individual position and business needs of the department.

Research Evaluation Scientist 
Training and experience for this classification are a Doctorate and three (3) to six (6) years of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.
 
Depending upon assignment, candidates may be required to pass a criminal background check, have a valid driver license, and /or additional training, licenses, or certificates.