Exam Bulletin - Research Data Specialist II

State of California

Exam Code: EX-2361

Examination Plans Included:

  • RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II - Open

Final Filing Date: Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Classification Details

RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II: $7,201.00 - $9,013.00 (A) per Month

View the RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II classification specification.

Application Instructions

This is not a timed exam. If you request a Reasonable Accommodation your account will be locked and you will not be able to proceed with the exam until the request is processed.

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Who Should Apply:

The information below will help you determine which classification(s) is(are) appropriate for you. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications as stated on this bulletin to compete in this examination.

Open and Open, Non-Promotional Examination(s):

  • RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II - Open

For all Classifications, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 9 months:

Exam Code(s):

    2361

For RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 9 months:

Exam Code(s):

  • EX-02361

How To Apply:

Submit an Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) to apply for this examination.

Electronic applications can be submitted through your account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.

Special Testing Arrangements:

If you require assistance or alternative testing arrangements due to a disability, indicate on your application that you need reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted by a representative of the testing department to make the necessary arrangements. If you have not been contacted by the time you receive notification of testing, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

If you are unable to submit your application or complete the test due to a disability, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

Minimum Qualifications

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements as stated on this exam bulletin to be accepted to the examination.

Unless otherwise stated in the Minimum Qualifications, qualifying experience may be combined on a proportionate basis if the requirements stated below include more than one pattern and are distinguished as "Either" 1, "or" 2, "or" 3, etc. For example, applicants possessing qualifying experience amounting to 50% of the required time of Pattern 1 and additional experience amounting to 50% of the required time of Pattern 2 may be accepted to an examination as meeting 100% of the overall experience requirement.

00105758 - RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II

Education

Incumbents must possess 12 semester or 18 quarter units course work in any combination of a data driven research-related field, such as economics, mathematics, psychology, sociology, demography, geography, anthropology, statistics, data science or a research-related field. This must include at least one course in statistical methods; and

Equivalent to graduation from an accredited college with a bachelor's degree. Work experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis by applicants who have the required units mentioned above.

A Master's Degree in economics, mathematics, psychology, sociology, demography, geography, anthropology, statistics, data science or a related research-oriented field may be substituted for two years of the required experience. A doctoral degree in the same areas may be substituted for three years of the required experience.

Experience applicable to one of the following patterns may be combined on a proportional basis with experience applicable to the other pattern to meet the total experience requirements.

and

Experience:

Either 1

One year of experience in the California state civil service performing data research-oriented duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a Research Data Specialist I;

Or 2

Five years of progressively responsible quantitative and qualitative data research experience engaged in the collection, compilation, manipulation, analysis, and interpretation of data. (Experience applied toward this requirement must include one year of experience performing duties at a level of responsibility equivalent to a Research Data Specialist I.)

Position Description

00105758 - RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II

Under general direction, incumbents independently perform the more complex data analysis in response to ad-hoc research and reporting requests utilizing business intelligence software programs to query, validate, format, and organize structured and unstructured data to forecast trends and assess potential impact in areas where changes are being implemented and a body of knowledge or experience does not exist. Incumbents have responsibility for coordinating the more complex research projects or activities, which involves defining and creating new data models and visualizations to ensure information needs are met. Senior departmental management utilizes these highly skilled practitioners as prime resource persons and innovators in the subject matter of their occupation. Incumbents have responsibility for designing and directing major complex research projects or activities.

Preferred or Desirable Qualifications

All employees must have general qualifications as described by California Code of Regulations, title 2, section 172.

For information regarding position location(s), please refer to the Eligible List Information section.

Examination Information

We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, or Edge for optimal performance when accessing the examination.

This examination consists of the following component(s):

Component OrderComponent TypeComponent DuePercentage of Final Score
1CalHR Online ExamN/A100%

A final score of 70% must be attained to be placed on the eligible list.

In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:

Knowledge of:
  1. Data analysis methods and techniques including gathering and collection of structured and unstructured data, as well as general principles, concepts and terminology used in research 
  2. Planning studies and investigations 
  3. Trend analysis procedures 
  4. Time management techniques to provide for efficient prioritization and completion of projects and assignments 
  5. Software to prepare spreadsheet summaries, reports, charts, and tables 
  6. Basic arithmetic and statistical techniques to analyze numerical data
  7. Departmental policies and procedures
  8. Design and implement research-related projects 
  9. Practices required to ensure and maintain data security, including securely transmitting confidential data 
  10. Experimental design procedures 
  11. Problem-solving techniques and processes to identify and resolve issues related to the completion of work assignments
  12. Advanced mathematical techniques and descriptive statistical analysis techniques and methods
  13. Principles and concepts applied in research and statistical settings 
  14. Principles and concepts appropriate to data and research techniques and methodologies 
  15. Operations research methods 
  16. Current data analytics processes, including the utilization of business intelligence software programs 
  17. Broad principles of algorithms, data structures, and data management 
  18. Application of computerized models to research data, statistical and other methods used in the analysis 
  19. Survey methods and analytical techniques 
  20. Organizational analysis including data presentation and interpretation 
  21. Principles and procedures of forecasting, and of research planning, design, methodology 
  22. Problem solving techniques and processes to facilitate the identification and resolution of issues related to the completion of work assignments
  23. State, federal and departmental regulations 
  24. Benefit-cost analysis
  25. Complex database design and structure to understand and complete research projects and assignments 
  26. Project management principles in order to design projects (e.g., define schedules, tasks, milestones, deliverables)
Ability to:
  1. Research, gather, compile, and analyze structured and unstructured data 
  2. Conduct and interpret descriptive statistical analyses using appropriate software to test research hypotheses and to formulate conclusions and recommendations 
  3. Prepare research and statistical reports 
  4. Analyze written and numerical data regarding general governmental problems 
  5. Speak and write effectively 
  6. Develop and evaluate alternatives, recommendations, solutions, and conclusions or approaches to research problems 
  7. Manage a workload consisting of multiple projects and assignments 
  8. Complete work under critical timelines to meet project. objectives and deadlines 
  9. Be objective and flexible to adapt to changes in priorities and work assignments
  10. Gain and maintain the confidence and cooperation of others, collaborate, and work in multidisciplinary teams
  11. Query, mine, analyze, and manipulate data 
  12. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing to individuals and groups related to the area of research 
  13. Present ideas and information effectively 
  14. Adapt and apply formal research methods and principles to research problems 
  15. Design and validate studies and analyze the accuracy of data collected 
  16. Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to reach sound conclusions and/or make recommendations 
  17. Identify improvements and originate and develop new solutions which depart from traditional and existing patterns 
  18. Identify required data, information, materials, and resources needed to complete/perform a project 
  19. Reason logically and creatively and use a variety of analytical techniques to resolve or provide information regarding complex research and data problems 
  20. Consult with and advise administrators or other interested parties on a wide variety of subject-matter areas 
  21. Recognize when issues, activities, and/or decisions need to be elevated to management, and communicate information effectively to others
  22. Plan and carry out large scale research and data projects 
  23. Prepare and present reports and data models
  24. Adapt and apply complex research methods and principles to research problems of an applied practical nature 
  25. Identify required data, information, materials, and resources needed to complete/perform a project 
  26. Identify data needs of complex analyses and evaluate adequacy of existing data to meet these needs
  27. Develop procedures for collection and integration of data sources 
  28. Design and test complex data base structures for storage and manipulation
  29. Access and process data located on large databases, servers, mainframes and/or desktop computers 
  30. Design and conduct a complex research project and/or validating studies 
  31. Conduct program evaluation studies including the systematic analysis of program requirements, goals, and outcomes to ensure program effectiveness 
  32. Analyze and evaluate the impact of programs, procedures, business processes, and/or policies 
  33. Develop documents related to data processing and analysis procedures for research projects and assignments to be used as a future resource 
  34. Determine how a system or process works and how utilizing new inputs, operations, and environmental conditions would affect outcomes 
  35. Function as a technical lead for complex projects to ensure timely completion 
  36. Provide technical assistance to professional personnel 
  37. Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with others, and with stakeholders 
  38. Communicate with internal and external stakeholders with diplomacy and tact, especially concerning difficult and sensitive issues
  39. Translate legislatively mandated program evaluation requirements into methodically rigorous study designs 
  40. Translate departmental policy into action programs and/or test the impact of policy changes 
  41. Evaluate the adequacy and merit of proposed research and evaluation study designs and techniques 
  42. Provide expert consultation on the feasibility impact or potential of a variety of operations, projects or proposals to the department and to other organizations 
  43. Analyze and evaluate the impact of changes to existing programs, procedures, business processes, and/or policies 
  44. Use creativity when independently designing research projects  
  45. Write clear and concise studies and reports 
  46. Design and develop research methodologies required to ensure the collection and analysis of appropriate, meaningful, and unbiased data 
  47. Conduct and interpret descriptive and/or inferential statistical analyses using appropriate software to test research hypotheses and to formulate conclusions and recommendations 
  48. Analyze situations accurately and take effective action at the appropriate time
  49. Provide mentoring to staff

Eligible List Information

A Servicewide Open eligible list for the RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II Classification will be established for:

  • State of California

The names of successful competitors will be merged onto the eligible list(s) in order of final score regardless of test date. Eligibility expires 12 months after it is established. Applicants must then retake the examination to reestablish eligibility.

Resulting Eligibility List(s) will be used to fill vacancies throughout the State of California.

Veterans' Preference will be granted for this examination. Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for veterans, veteran widows and widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans who seek employment with the state. Veterans' Preference is also extended to currently serving military members nearing their retirement or separation date.

You are not eligible for Veteran's Preference if you are:

  • A veteran who has been dishonorably discharged or released.
  • A veteran, widow or widower of a veteran, or spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran who currently has permanent civil service status. (Permanent civil service status is the status of an employee who is lawfully retained in his/her position after completion of the applicable probationary period. This does not include limited term).

Veterans' Preference is codified in Government Code Sections 18973 – 18979.

Veteran status is verified by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Directions to apply for Veterans' Preference are on the Veterans' Preference Application (Std. Form 1093), which is available at www.CalCareers.ca.gov, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Career Credits are not granted for examination(s) administered on an Open basis or a Promotional basis.

Research Data Specialist II Training and Experience Exam Preview

Section 1:Tasks

Instructions:
Rate your experience performing specific job-related tasks.

Respond to each of the following statements by indicating how the statement applies to you. You are required to respond to every question and provide relevant examples. Also, indicate the references who can verify the information provided.

In responding to each statement, you may refer to your WORK EXPERIENCE, whether paid or volunteer, your EDUCATION, and/or FORMAL TRAINING COURSES you have completed.

PLEASE NOTE: This examination is designed to gain an overall assessment of your education, training, and experience as it directly relates to the duties and the knowledge, skills and abilities required for this position. Possession of specific education is not required to be successful in this examination; however, such achievements may substitute for desirable levels of experience. All components of this examination have been carefully validated by tying them directly to job requirements and documenting their relevance to the position.

1. Designing and implementing research strategies to address questions pertaining to program and/or research areas.
2. Designing and implementing data collection procedures using research techniques that ensure data quality (e.g., integrity, accuracy).
3. Validating data to ensure integrity and accuracy of the data.
4. Organizing, compiling, and maintaining data in databases, templates, and/or spreadsheets to use as resources for research summaries and reports.
5. Extracting data using various software programs (e.g., SAS, SPSS, ArcGIS, SQL, Access, R, BusinessObjects (BI)) to prepare data for analysis.
6. Analyzing data using various software programs (e.g., SAS, SPSS, SQL, ArcGIS, Access, Excel, R, BusinessObjects (BI)) to address questions pertaining to program and/or research areas.
7. Reading, comprehending, and analyzing a variety of written reports, correspondence, and other research documents, industry standards, regulatory requirements, and/or statistical data.
8. Summarizing research results (e.g., statistical results of a research project, survey results) either verbally or in writing to present to a variety of audiences.
9. Identifying data and information needed to address issues, make decisions, or complete work assignments and projects.
10. Writing research reports for dissemination to requestors and other interested parties that may include the following components: background and literature review, list of specific study aims, goals and objectives, study design and research methodology, data collection procedures, data analysis techniques, results, conclusions and recommendations.
11. Writing project and/or executive summaries and other reports for various purposes (e.g., writing regulations, documenting program requirements, policy analysis, responding to requests for information and requesting information).
12. Creating graphs, charts, and tables to effectively convey data distributions, relationships between variables, and research results using various software programs (e.g., SAS, SPSS, ArcGIS, Access, Excel, R).
13. Providing expertise regarding research topics (e.g., data requirements, study implications, evaluation objectives, benchmarks, trends) to various audiences.
14. Providing general technical support and/or training regarding research topics (e.g., data requirements, study implications, evaluation objectives, benchmarks, trends) to various audiences.
15. Completing complex and difficult research assignments independently and with minimal supervision.
16. Querying databases using programming languages (e.g., SQL, SAS, PERL, Python) to extract data sets for ad hoc requests.

Section 2: Tasks

Instructions:
Rate your experience performing specific job-related tasks.

Respond to each of the following statements by indicating how the statement applies to you. You are required to respond to every question and provide relevant examples. Also, indicate the references who can verify the information provided.

In responding to each statement, you may refer to your WORK EXPERIENCE, whether paid or volunteer, and/or FORMAL TRAINING COURSES you have completed.

17. Responding to ad-hoc data requests from internal and/or external requestors in accordance with applicable rules or laws.
18. Verbally summarizing data and information in an impromptu manner (e.g., reporting the outcome of a meeting, responding to questions following a presentation).
19. Facilitating meetings to discuss information that is necessary for program research and/or to resolve issues pertinent to the area of research.

Testing Departments

  • State of California

Contact Information

Questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

State of California
CalCareer Service Center
1810 16th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: (866) 844-8671
CalCareer@calhr.ca.gov

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice). TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

Drug Free Statement

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free State work place. Any applicant for State employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective, because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing civil service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

General Information

Examination and/or Employment Application (STD 678) forms are available at the California Department of Human Resources, local offices of the Employment Development Department, and through your CalCareer Account (www.CalCareers.ca.gov).

If you meet the requirements stated on this examination bulletin, you may take this examination, which is competitive. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination described in this bulletin will be rated against a predetermined job-related rating, and all applicants who pass will be ranked according to their scores.

State of California reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and all applicants will be notified.

General Qualifications: Applicants must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and a state of health consistent with the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class. A medical examination may be required. In open examinations, investigation may be made of employment records and personal history and fingerprinting may be required.

Eligible Lists: Eligible lists established by competitive examination, regardless of date, must be used in the following order: 1) sub-divisional promotional, 2) departmental promotional, 3) multi-departmental promotional, 4) service-wide promotional, 5) departmental open, 6) open. When there are two lists of the same kind, the older must be used first. Eligible lists will expire in one to four years unless otherwise stated on the bulletin.

High School Equivalence: Equivalence to completion of the 12th grade may be demonstrated in any one of the following ways: 1) passing the General Education Development (GED) Test; 2) completion of 12 semester units of college-level work; 3) certification from the State Department of Education, a local school board, or high school authorities that the competitor is considered to have education equivalent to graduation from high school; or 4) for clerical and accounting classes, substitution of business college work in place of high school on a year-for-year basis.

Accepted applicants must provide proof of identification at each in-person test session. Acceptable identification consists of a photo identification card or two forms of signed identification.
Application Methods:
Electronic (Your CalCareer Account)