What are the responsibilities and job description for the RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST I position at California Department of Developmental Services?
Job Description And Duties
The Research Data Specialist I (RDS I) independently performs technical research and statistical work, with primary responsibility for business intelligence reporting, Power BI development, data visualization, and developing and maintaining data models and reporting solutions for the Department of Developmental Services (Department), Employment Services and other programs. Responsibilities include complex statistical data generation, manipulation, analysis, and reporting to support program oversight and data-driven decision making. The incumbent also serves as a technical resource to staff on program statistics, reporting methodologies, and data interpretation.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in-office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
The position requires the incumbent to maintain consistent and regular attendance, communicate effectively while working with the public, community members, management, staff, and control agencies; develop and maintain knowledge and skills related to specific tasks, methodologies, materials, tools and equipment; complete assignments in a timely and efficient manner; and adhere to departmental policies and procedures.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-526820
Position #(s):
472-527-5742-XXX
Working Title:
Research Data Specialist I
Classification:
RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST I
$6,955.00 - $8,706.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
Special Requirements
The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than three pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/13/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting. Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At Www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included. If You Choose To Not Apply Electronically, a Hard Copy Application Package May Be Submitted Through An Alternative Method Listed Below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Alfonso Alejandre
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Alfonso Alejandre
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
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:
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:
Knowledge of: Business intelligence, data visualization, and dashboard development principles and tools, particularly Power BI, including report design, data modeling, and publishing for varied audiences; data concepts, including dimensional data modeling and the use of data marts to support reporting and analytic modeling; Python for data analysis, automation, API integration, and data preparation; SQL for querying databases; research methods and techniques, including the application of computerized models to research data; statistical and analytical methods for data analysis; and survey methods and other analytical techniques.
Ability to : Apply logical reasoning and critical thinking; plan and carry out research projects; work effectively with teams of professional, technical, and support personnel; communicate effectively about data and research to individuals and groups. Analyze and make recommendations; prepare and present technical reports; establish and maintain project priorities and deadlines; establish and maintain cooperative and harmonious relationships; and analyze situations accurately and take effective action. Strong understanding of research and statistical methods, programming for data analysis and automation, data concepts, and business intelligence and data visualization tools.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Alfonso Alejandre
(916) 654-1973
alfonso.alejandre@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
(916) 654-1888
OHRAS@dds.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.
Additional Information
Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re-employment List procedures, pre-employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Research Data Specialist I exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts.
Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
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.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free 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.
The Research Data Specialist I (RDS I) independently performs technical research and statistical work, with primary responsibility for business intelligence reporting, Power BI development, data visualization, and developing and maintaining data models and reporting solutions for the Department of Developmental Services (Department), Employment Services and other programs. Responsibilities include complex statistical data generation, manipulation, analysis, and reporting to support program oversight and data-driven decision making. The incumbent also serves as a technical resource to staff on program statistics, reporting methodologies, and data interpretation.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in-office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
The position requires the incumbent to maintain consistent and regular attendance, communicate effectively while working with the public, community members, management, staff, and control agencies; develop and maintain knowledge and skills related to specific tasks, methodologies, materials, tools and equipment; complete assignments in a timely and efficient manner; and adhere to departmental policies and procedures.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-526820
Position #(s):
472-527-5742-XXX
Working Title:
Research Data Specialist I
Classification:
RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST I
$6,955.00 - $8,706.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
- First floor retail space (separate access from 12 th Street)
- Café with multiple vendors
- Outdoor seating for meal breaks
- Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
- Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
- Lactation rooms
Special Requirements
The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than three pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
- Describe your experience using multiple technology platforms such as Structured Query Language, Python, and Power BI. Give examples of how you have used such platforms to process data and perform analytic procedures.
- Describe your experience generating, analyzing, and reporting actionable data to inform policy or program development.
- Describe your experience building dashboards or reports for non-technical audiences. Explain how you determined a narrative, designed for usability, and how you ensured that reliable data was displayed.
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/13/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting. Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At Www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included. If You Choose To Not Apply Electronically, a Hard Copy Application Package May Be Submitted Through An Alternative Method Listed Below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Alfonso Alejandre
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Alfonso Alejandre
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
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 www.CalCareers.ca.gov. 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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
- School Transcripts
- Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and is a narrative discussion of how the candidate's education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. SEE “SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS” ABOVE FOR INSTRUCTIONS.
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:
Knowledge of: Business intelligence, data visualization, and dashboard development principles and tools, particularly Power BI, including report design, data modeling, and publishing for varied audiences; data concepts, including dimensional data modeling and the use of data marts to support reporting and analytic modeling; Python for data analysis, automation, API integration, and data preparation; SQL for querying databases; research methods and techniques, including the application of computerized models to research data; statistical and analytical methods for data analysis; and survey methods and other analytical techniques.
Ability to : Apply logical reasoning and critical thinking; plan and carry out research projects; work effectively with teams of professional, technical, and support personnel; communicate effectively about data and research to individuals and groups. Analyze and make recommendations; prepare and present technical reports; establish and maintain project priorities and deadlines; establish and maintain cooperative and harmonious relationships; and analyze situations accurately and take effective action. Strong understanding of research and statistical methods, programming for data analysis and automation, data concepts, and business intelligence and data visualization tools.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Alfonso Alejandre
(916) 654-1973
alfonso.alejandre@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
(916) 654-1888
OHRAS@dds.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.
Additional Information
Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re-employment List procedures, pre-employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Research Data Specialist I exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts.
Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
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.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free 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.
Salary : $6,955 - $8,706