Research Associate I-Child Welfare Data Scientist/Data Systems & Analytics Exper

The child welfare data systems and analytics expert functions in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary team with a shared commitment to excellence. The child welfare data systems and analytics expert works with the data-driven assistance team to design, develop, and implement technology-driven solutions that leverage artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data science to improve efficiency, decision-making, and innovation in the context of child welfare. This role is critical to strengthening data capability, developing data systems to track outcomes for children and families, and supporting Federal, State, and/or local reporting.

PROJECT-SPECIFIC JOB FUNCTIONS

• Assists in designing, managing, and analyzing data systems that support data-driven decision-making in the context of child welfare

• Provides consultation and support to public child welfare agencies (jurisdictions), including building and maintaining AI models or systems and integrating these tools into child welfare processes

• Designs data analytic tools, data visualization reports, dashboards, and data-driven assistance work plans

• Collaborates on the development and maintenance of data pipelines and data engineering solutions

• Contributes to tracking key performance metrics relevant to child welfare (e.g., safety, permanency, and well-being)

• Identifies trends, patterns, and correlations in child welfare data to inform technical assistance development and delivery

• Provides consultation and support to public child welfare agencies to explore performance using available State information to identify areas for additional data collection (i.e., using data to test theories/hypotheses, training and coaching and review of the completeness of problem exploration)

• Supports connecting continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities with data collection processes

• Assists with management of project timelines and schedules

• Executes tasks and deliverables for contract compliance

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education and experience:

• Master's degree: 3 years of experience, including 2 years of focused data analytics experience

• Bachelor's degree: 6 years of experience, including 2 years of focused data analytics experience

Experience:

• Experience in child welfare, health care, and/or highly related field experience with administrative data and practice with technical expertise in data management, system design, and advanced analytics

• Experience working with large-scale datasets and the intricacies involved in managing, analyzing, and optimizing (query tuning), preferably within the context of child welfare (e.g., Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System, Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System, National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System)

• Experience designing, developing, or implementing AI tools or models to enhance data analysis, automation, or support data insights

• (Preferred) Experience providing consultation and technical assistance to public child welfare agencies

• (Preferred) Experience interpreting and communication jurisdictions' needs and strengths through the use of data

Software proficiency:

• Expert knowledge in Microsoft Office (e.g., Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

• Proficient in Python, SQL, and cloud-based data management platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Databricks) required

• Proficient in using Tableau and PowerBi independently

• Proficient in project management/CRM software (e.g., Monday.com, Smartsheet, Salesforce)

• Experience with SPSS, SAS, R, other statistical packages

Competencies:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with the project team and jurisdiction, specifically the ability to communicate data results effectively to any audience and confidently make data-informed decisions

• Knowledge of child welfare Federal reviews and child welfare data systems

• Creative and innovative thinking to design and deliver data-driven solutions that increase efficiencies and reduce burden for jurisdictions and within the project team

• Analytical skills to extract data insights, trends, and outcomes

• Excellent organizational and time management skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Ability to write clear and concise copy with attention to detail and target audience focus with minimal supervision

• Strong problem-solving, critical-thinking, and analytical skills

• Self-motivated and proactive to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision and guidance; adaptable and flexible to cope with changing requirements and technologies

• Support for the initiation, planning, executing, and delivery of data-driven projects with a growth mindset

• Ability to conduct advanced statistical analyses with minimal supervision preferred

Knowledge:

• AI, machine learning, data analytics, data science

• Quality assurance and CQI

Language:

• English fluency (oral and written)

Location:

• Remote

Security clearance:

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust Clearance (Federal Government background check)

Physical requirements:

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk or computer workstation

• Regularly uses a computer, keyboard, and mouse

• Normal or corrected vision to read documents, view computer screens, and perform tasks that require visual accuracy

• Ability to hear and understand spoken information in person and over the phone

• Minimal lifting and carrying may be required, typically light office supplies or documents

• Ability to move within the office environment to access equipment, files, and interact with colleagues

• Ability to handle occasional stress related to deadlines, workloads, or challenging tasks

• Ability to travel 10-20 percent, on average, based on the project needs

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED

This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position, nor will it be the sole basis for any subsequent employee evaluations. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required by their supervisor.

APPLICATION INFORMATION:

If you meet the minimum requirements for this position, please click on the "Apply" link posted below and complete the application. Please include cover letter, resume, and at least (3) professional references.

JBS International is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Applicants can learn more about the company's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster at EEOPost.pdf. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.