Operations Research Specialist: Virtual Apply
JOB
Our Ideal Candidate is passionate about utilizing data-driven solutions to improve the jobseekers' outcomes through the evaluation of workforce programs, policies, and services in the state of Washington. Our ideal candidate is experienced in designing and conducting quantitative evaluation research (e.g., using randomized controlled trials or applying quasi-experimental methods). The ideal candidate is also a well-organized team player who possesses excellent professional communication skills, excels at collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders, and is committed to delivering high-quality reports and recommendations on time. The Data Architecture, Transformation and Analytics (DATA) Division of Employment Security Department (ESD) supports the agency mission and the employment process by providing businesses, individuals, and other customers with the labor market information they need to succeed in a changing economy. The Operations Research Specialist position contributes to the achievement of the organizations mission by conducting comprehensive program evaluation, delivering products and services at the local and state level, providing technical support to clients, and operating as the informational and communications link between the department, the customers, and the general public.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
The Operations Research Specialist will direct and oversee program evaluations and scientific research to improve the operations of workforce programs and delivery of services, and develop statistical and data analyses (e.g., randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental analyses). They will collaborate with stakeholders, produce high-quality reports, and contribute to projects aimed at improving jobseekers' outcomes and ensuring equity in unemployment insurance provisions.Some of what your duties may look like: Define scope of research, project goals, objectives, methods, and plans. Conduct comprehensive literature review of program evaluation and workforce policy impact studies to build knowledge to improve estimation and data manipulation techniques. Gather, prepare, explore, and clean raw data to be used in the analysis. Develop research methods and procedures and econometric models to analyze data and estimate impacts. Using statistical software programming languages (for example, R), mathematical models, and descriptive and advanced inferential statistical techniques analyze data and interpret results. Carry responsibility for final reports, conclusions, recommendations, and for all technical and/or project-based decisions related to the assigned evaluation projects. Extract and share data with customers according to the business needs and confidentiality requirements. Coordinate intra- and inter-agency review processes and incorporate them into the evaluation plan to ensure timely delivery of the products. Share the study findings with internal and external stakeholders to encourage program staff to implement program changes. Consult with program administrators and agency management to develop initial research questions; assess and refine them based on policy implications, feasibility and data requirement; design a research project including timelines and required activities and resources to address them. Review, evaluate, and proofread work products completed by coworkers to ensure the highest quality products possible. Please click here to request a complete detailed description of the position and its duties.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. Our values are Belonging, Love, Equity, Stewardship, and Access. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self. Opportunity for AllWe strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Caleb Baldwin or at 253-306-2999 or the Talent Acquisition Team, Washington Relay Service 711. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711. This recruitment may be used to fill additional agency-wide positions in accordance with Article 4 of the WFSE Collective Bargaining Agreement.
