What are the responsibilities and job description for the Needs Assessment Coordinator position at Texas Department of State Health Services?
Date: Jan 7, 2025
Location:
AUSTIN, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Needs Assessment Coordinator
Job Title: Research Specialist V
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: M&CH Epidemiology
Posting Number: 1391
Closing Date: 01/21/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-24
Salary Range: $5,425.33 - $7,155.75
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Part-Time
Travel: Up to 15%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (RDM)
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
0231,0531,4505,4591,8051,8825,8850,15AX,35F,38A,49A,683X,783X,IS,ISS,OSS
Brief Job Description
Research Specialist V performs highly advanced (senior-level) research work by overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of mixed methods data analysis projects for the Division for Community Health Improvement (CHI) with a primary focus in Title V Maternal and Child Health (MCH) programs. Reports to the Epidemiology Branch Manager. Serves as a program needs assessment and evaluation methodology specialist within the Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology (MCH Epi) Unit, with minimal supervision and extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Work involves overseeing, planning, and conducting needs assessments and evaluation studies, statistical analyses, research studies, and other projects, and interpreting research findings to gauge the effectiveness of CHI programs, projects, and initiatives. Work also involves directing and conducting qualitative data collection efforts including focus groups, key informant interviews, and other qualitative research efforts. Consults with research professionals, including staff both within and external to MCH Epi, to define and solve specific problems and to assure quality control for statistical analyses and research designs. Prepares reports, scientific papers/articles, and presentations for distribution and/or publication, including writing reports for federal and state partners. Performs scientific literature searches and reviews publications, research proposals, legislation, and state and federal policies to inform policy and practice related to CHI and public health. Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting CHI programs. Provides data-related consultation and technical assistance to CHI program areas on needs assessment, health impact, research methods, survey development, and program evaluation/assessment of CHI practices, programs, and issues. Participates in cross-functional training and provides technical advice within MCH Epi and beyond. Represents MCH Epi and CHI on committees, workgroups, and projects to meet research and data analysis needs. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with the agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
(30%) Serves as program needs assessment and evaluation coordinator within the Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology (MCH Epi) Unit, with minimal supervision and extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Work involves overseeing, planning, and conducting needs assessments and evaluation studies, statistical analyses, research studies, and other projects, and interpreting research findings to gauge the effectiveness of CHI programs, projects, and initiatives. Work also involves directing and conducting qualitative data collection efforts including focus groups, key informant interviews, and other qualitative research efforts.
(25%) Consults with stakeholders, including research and program staff both within and external to MCH Epi, to define and solve specific problems and to assure quality control for statistical analyses and research designs. Prepares reports, scientific papers/articles, and presentations for distribution and/or publication, including writing reports for federal and state partners.
(15%) Performs scientific literature searches and reviews publications, research proposals, legislation, and state and federal policies to inform policy and practice related to CHI and public health. Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting CHI programs.
(15%) Provides data-related consultation and technical assistance to CHI program areas on needs assessment, health impact, research methods, survey development, and program evaluation/assessment of CHI practices, programs, and issues. Participates in cross-functional training and provides technical advice within MCH Epi and beyond.
(10%) Represents MCH Epi and CHI on committees, workgroups, and projects to meet research and data analysis needs.
(5%) Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery of Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities (KSAs)
Knowledge of the array of research planning, needs assessment, and evaluation methods; mixed methods research approaches including quantitative (statistical analysis) and qualitative (including focus groups, interviews, and other methodologies) data collection and analysis.
Knowledge of scientific research methods, survey studies, statistical concepts and methods and their application to research studies and data analysis.
Knowledge of computer software applications, especially SAS and/or SASViya, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), and geographical information systems software (e.g., ArcGIS and/or Tableau).
Skills in good coordination, communication, and writing.
Skills in developing procedures to monitor and evaluate progress in achieving project objectives, including feedback to policy makers to provide input into the ongoing research process.
Skills in the development of technical standard operating procedures and data management plans.
Skills in project management to organize major project activities into a logical sequence with a reasonable and achievable set of deadlines.
Skills in strong technical writing, reporting, and interpretation of data to clearly and succinctly communicate project/research information for correspondence with state and federal agencies, grant applications and plans, state rules, and planning procedures.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to facilitate meeting agendas to achieve planned outcomes and to convey planning alternatives or recommendations to a variety of audiences including DSHS staff, the public, and decision makers.
Ability to gather information from a variety of sources and to synthesize and translate detailed information into simpler terms; to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and effectively deliver training and technical assistance about research/data methods, procedures, or DSHS policies.
Ability to assess the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of proposed data collection methods and designs.
Ability to plan, organize, and conduct assigned phases of complex research projects.
Ability to interpret complex statistical analysis, charts, and tables; to develop and analyze measuring instruments with respect to reliability, relevance, and validity.
Ability to formulate reasonable hypotheses and structure research designs to account for variables.
Ability to communicate effectively; to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work with others as part of a team.
Knowledge of the array of research planning, needs assessment, and evaluation methods; mixed methods research approaches including quantitative (statistical analysis) and qualitative (including focus groups, interviews, and other methodologies) data collection and analysis.
Knowledge of scientific research methods, survey studies, statistical concepts and methods and their application to research studies and data analysis.
Knowledge of computer software applications, especially SAS and/or SASViya, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), and geographical information systems software (e.g., ArcGIS and/or Tableau).
Skills in good coordination, communication, and writing.
Skills in developing procedures to monitor and evaluate progress in achieving project objectives, including feedback to policy makers to provide input into the ongoing research process.
Skills in the development of technical standard operating procedures and data management plans.
Skills in project management to organize major project activities into a logical sequence with a reasonable and achievable set of deadlines.
Skills in strong technical writing, reporting, and interpretation of data to clearly and succinctly communicate project/research information for correspondence with state and federal agencies, grant applications and plans, state rules, and planning procedures.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to facilitate meeting agendas to achieve planned outcomes and to convey planning alternatives or recommendations to a variety of audiences including DSHS staff, the public, and decision makers.
Ability to gather information from a variety of sources and to synthesize and translate detailed information into simpler terms; to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and effectively deliver training and technical assistance about research/data methods, procedures, or DSHS policies.
Ability to assess the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of proposed data collection methods and designs.
Ability to plan, organize, and conduct assigned phases of complex research projects.
Ability to interpret complex statistical analysis, charts, and tables; to develop and analyze measuring instruments with respect to reliability, relevance, and validity.
Ability to formulate reasonable hypotheses and structure research designs to account for variables.
Ability to communicate effectively; to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work with others as part of a team.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Not applicable.
Initial Selection Criteria
Graduation from an accredited college or university, with receipt of a master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, statistics, social science, or a related field. Experience and education may be substituted for one another on a year by year basis.
Experience analyzing data using SAS.
Experience with quantitative research methods. Experience with quantitative data collection and analysis preferred.
Experience with qualitative research methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, and/or focus groups). Experience with qualitative data collection and analysis preferred.
Additional Information
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION PRIOR TO SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION:
Information on the application must clearly state how the applicant meets initial selection criteria in the Summary of Experience section in order to be interviewed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application.
Applicants must provide information relevant to the required experience for this position. Answer all questions and completely summarize your experience including technical and managerial responsibilities and any special training, skills and qualifications for each position you have held in the employment history section of application.
All fields on the application must be filled-in completely. This includes, but is not limited to, previous salary, previous supervisor, and reason for leaving previous position.
Agency salary policy, budget and candidate’s qualifications will dictate the final salary offer.
This position is available for telework options as an added employee benefit but must live and reside in Texas.
Applicants selected for an interview will be required to provide two samples: 1) a writing sample as first author and 2) a SAS statistical program sample with examples of coding, data cleaning, data manipulation, and data analysis.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
Location:
AUSTIN, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Needs Assessment Coordinator
Job Title: Research Specialist V
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: M&CH Epidemiology
Posting Number: 1391
Closing Date: 01/21/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-24
Salary Range: $5,425.33 - $7,155.75
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Part-Time
Travel: Up to 15%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (RDM)
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
0231,0531,4505,4591,8051,8825,8850,15AX,35F,38A,49A,683X,783X,IS,ISS,OSS
Brief Job Description
Research Specialist V performs highly advanced (senior-level) research work by overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of mixed methods data analysis projects for the Division for Community Health Improvement (CHI) with a primary focus in Title V Maternal and Child Health (MCH) programs. Reports to the Epidemiology Branch Manager. Serves as a program needs assessment and evaluation methodology specialist within the Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology (MCH Epi) Unit, with minimal supervision and extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Work involves overseeing, planning, and conducting needs assessments and evaluation studies, statistical analyses, research studies, and other projects, and interpreting research findings to gauge the effectiveness of CHI programs, projects, and initiatives. Work also involves directing and conducting qualitative data collection efforts including focus groups, key informant interviews, and other qualitative research efforts. Consults with research professionals, including staff both within and external to MCH Epi, to define and solve specific problems and to assure quality control for statistical analyses and research designs. Prepares reports, scientific papers/articles, and presentations for distribution and/or publication, including writing reports for federal and state partners. Performs scientific literature searches and reviews publications, research proposals, legislation, and state and federal policies to inform policy and practice related to CHI and public health. Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting CHI programs. Provides data-related consultation and technical assistance to CHI program areas on needs assessment, health impact, research methods, survey development, and program evaluation/assessment of CHI practices, programs, and issues. Participates in cross-functional training and provides technical advice within MCH Epi and beyond. Represents MCH Epi and CHI on committees, workgroups, and projects to meet research and data analysis needs. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with the agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
(30%) Serves as program needs assessment and evaluation coordinator within the Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology (MCH Epi) Unit, with minimal supervision and extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Work involves overseeing, planning, and conducting needs assessments and evaluation studies, statistical analyses, research studies, and other projects, and interpreting research findings to gauge the effectiveness of CHI programs, projects, and initiatives. Work also involves directing and conducting qualitative data collection efforts including focus groups, key informant interviews, and other qualitative research efforts.
(25%) Consults with stakeholders, including research and program staff both within and external to MCH Epi, to define and solve specific problems and to assure quality control for statistical analyses and research designs. Prepares reports, scientific papers/articles, and presentations for distribution and/or publication, including writing reports for federal and state partners.
(15%) Performs scientific literature searches and reviews publications, research proposals, legislation, and state and federal policies to inform policy and practice related to CHI and public health. Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting CHI programs.
(15%) Provides data-related consultation and technical assistance to CHI program areas on needs assessment, health impact, research methods, survey development, and program evaluation/assessment of CHI practices, programs, and issues. Participates in cross-functional training and provides technical advice within MCH Epi and beyond.
(10%) Represents MCH Epi and CHI on committees, workgroups, and projects to meet research and data analysis needs.
(5%) Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery of Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities (KSAs)
Knowledge of the array of research planning, needs assessment, and evaluation methods; mixed methods research approaches including quantitative (statistical analysis) and qualitative (including focus groups, interviews, and other methodologies) data collection and analysis.
Knowledge of scientific research methods, survey studies, statistical concepts and methods and their application to research studies and data analysis.
Knowledge of computer software applications, especially SAS and/or SASViya, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), and geographical information systems software (e.g., ArcGIS and/or Tableau).
Skills in good coordination, communication, and writing.
Skills in developing procedures to monitor and evaluate progress in achieving project objectives, including feedback to policy makers to provide input into the ongoing research process.
Skills in the development of technical standard operating procedures and data management plans.
Skills in project management to organize major project activities into a logical sequence with a reasonable and achievable set of deadlines.
Skills in strong technical writing, reporting, and interpretation of data to clearly and succinctly communicate project/research information for correspondence with state and federal agencies, grant applications and plans, state rules, and planning procedures.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to facilitate meeting agendas to achieve planned outcomes and to convey planning alternatives or recommendations to a variety of audiences including DSHS staff, the public, and decision makers.
Ability to gather information from a variety of sources and to synthesize and translate detailed information into simpler terms; to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and effectively deliver training and technical assistance about research/data methods, procedures, or DSHS policies.
Ability to assess the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of proposed data collection methods and designs.
Ability to plan, organize, and conduct assigned phases of complex research projects.
Ability to interpret complex statistical analysis, charts, and tables; to develop and analyze measuring instruments with respect to reliability, relevance, and validity.
Ability to formulate reasonable hypotheses and structure research designs to account for variables.
Ability to communicate effectively; to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work with others as part of a team.
Knowledge of the array of research planning, needs assessment, and evaluation methods; mixed methods research approaches including quantitative (statistical analysis) and qualitative (including focus groups, interviews, and other methodologies) data collection and analysis.
Knowledge of scientific research methods, survey studies, statistical concepts and methods and their application to research studies and data analysis.
Knowledge of computer software applications, especially SAS and/or SASViya, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), and geographical information systems software (e.g., ArcGIS and/or Tableau).
Skills in good coordination, communication, and writing.
Skills in developing procedures to monitor and evaluate progress in achieving project objectives, including feedback to policy makers to provide input into the ongoing research process.
Skills in the development of technical standard operating procedures and data management plans.
Skills in project management to organize major project activities into a logical sequence with a reasonable and achievable set of deadlines.
Skills in strong technical writing, reporting, and interpretation of data to clearly and succinctly communicate project/research information for correspondence with state and federal agencies, grant applications and plans, state rules, and planning procedures.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to facilitate meeting agendas to achieve planned outcomes and to convey planning alternatives or recommendations to a variety of audiences including DSHS staff, the public, and decision makers.
Ability to gather information from a variety of sources and to synthesize and translate detailed information into simpler terms; to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and effectively deliver training and technical assistance about research/data methods, procedures, or DSHS policies.
Ability to assess the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of proposed data collection methods and designs.
Ability to plan, organize, and conduct assigned phases of complex research projects.
Ability to interpret complex statistical analysis, charts, and tables; to develop and analyze measuring instruments with respect to reliability, relevance, and validity.
Ability to formulate reasonable hypotheses and structure research designs to account for variables.
Ability to communicate effectively; to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work with others as part of a team.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Not applicable.
Initial Selection Criteria
Graduation from an accredited college or university, with receipt of a master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, statistics, social science, or a related field. Experience and education may be substituted for one another on a year by year basis.
Experience analyzing data using SAS.
Experience with quantitative research methods. Experience with quantitative data collection and analysis preferred.
Experience with qualitative research methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, and/or focus groups). Experience with qualitative data collection and analysis preferred.
Additional Information
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION PRIOR TO SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION:
Information on the application must clearly state how the applicant meets initial selection criteria in the Summary of Experience section in order to be interviewed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application.
Applicants must provide information relevant to the required experience for this position. Answer all questions and completely summarize your experience including technical and managerial responsibilities and any special training, skills and qualifications for each position you have held in the employment history section of application.
All fields on the application must be filled-in completely. This includes, but is not limited to, previous salary, previous supervisor, and reason for leaving previous position.
Agency salary policy, budget and candidate’s qualifications will dictate the final salary offer.
This position is available for telework options as an added employee benefit but must live and reside in Texas.
Applicants selected for an interview will be required to provide two samples: 1) a writing sample as first author and 2) a SAS statistical program sample with examples of coding, data cleaning, data manipulation, and data analysis.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
- The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
- Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
- DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form
Salary : $5,425 - $7,156
