Data Collection Supervisor – JOLTS

Job Summary

The Supervisor will lead and manage a team responsible for conducting government survey services as part of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) program. This role involves overseeing data collection operations, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of collected data, and providing guidance and support to staff. The Supervisor will coach and motivate team members, assist with training and development, and implement quality assurance measures to meet program standards. Additionally, the position includes monitoring team performance, managing difficult respondent interactions, and assisting with process improvements and operational procedures. The Supervisor will also be responsible for managing data reporting and transmission, ensuring compliance with BLS protocols, and maintaining a productive, professional, and collaborative work environment. This is a dynamic leadership role requiring strong communication skills, technical proficiency, and the ability to nurture a high-performing team.

Duties & Responsibilities

As a Supervisor, typical duties include, but are not limited to:

Supervision & Leadership

• Lead, supervise, and actively participate in the day-to-day activities of an Interview team conducting government survey services for the BLS JOLTS program.
• Set clear performance expectations and goals for staff, while motivating and coaching them to achieve their full potential.
• Provide regular performance feedback, offering guidance and support for staff development through coaching, training, and progressive discipline when necessary.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, encouraging teamwork and open communication.
• Promote mutual respect and trust within the team, maintaining confidentiality and ensuring a positive, productive work atmosphere.
• Take initiative in leading tasks, demonstrating integrity and sensitivity to employees’ needs.
• Utilize problem-solving skills and sound judgment to address and resolve personnel related issues effectively.
• Attract and recruit new talent as needed, supporting recruitment efforts such as job fairs and other hiring events.
• Cultivate the skills and abilities of team members, creating an environment that promotes high-performance and team engagement.
• Keep the Task Manager informed about staff-related developments that may impact work performance.
• Ensure punctuality and reliability by consistently reporting to work on time and responding promptly to Task Manager guidance.
• Collaborate effectively with other program supervisors to maintain leadership continuity and ensure smooth operations across teams.
  
  

Data Collection & Quality Assurance

• Review and resolve data errors, including addressing reporting issues, bad registry information, and discrepancies.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews of collected data through re-interviews, call monitoring, and case reviews to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to established standards.
• Follow BLS-approved procedures for data analysis, editing, and coding.
• Document production standards and quality control measures to ensure consistency and quality across the team.
• Assist staff with converting respondent refusals to encourage participation in the JOLTS program, promoting successful engagement and data collection.
• Import data files into databases and securely transmit processed confidential data to remote systems using approved data transfer processes.
  
  

Training & Development

• Utilize BLS-approved training materials and assist in developing and administering operational procedures.
• Conduct or participate in training sessions for staff, including new employee onboarding and training, refresher training, and ongoing skill development.
• Provide guidance and support to team members on the BLS survey and system/software usage.
  
  

Operational Support & Process Improvement

• Assist the Task Manager with implementing new processes and procedures.
• Develop, maintain, and update completed work logs or checklists to ensure smooth operational flow.
• Develop and document Data Collection Center procedures, ensuring compliance with established standards.
  
  

Communication & Coordination

• Communicate effectively with difficult or sensitive respondents, addressing their concerns professionally and efficiently.
• Research and write correspondence in response to questions regarding state employment agency personnel data.
• Coordinate the resolution of any data discrepancies or edits received from BLS personnel.
  
  

Administrative & Compliance Oversight

• Monitor and ensure the timely and accurate completion of timecards, contractor and government compliance training, and required weekly and monthly reports.
• Complete annual performance appraisals for assigned staff, ensuring thorough and timely administration of performance reviews.
  
  

Work Experience Requirements

Supervisory and Leadership Experience:

• A minimum of five (5) years of prior supervisory or management experience, with a demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and support teams.
• Demonstrated experience in providing performance feedback, identifying employee training needs, and supporting skill development among team members.
• Experience in recruiting, interviewing, and selecting quality candidates, as well as coordinating hires to meet operational needs.
• Demonstrated ability to direct and motivate team members to meet or exceed goals, ensuring high levels of performance and productivity.
• Proven leadership in addressing challenges related to achieving performance metrics.
  
  

Performance Methodology

• Deep understanding of production processes, quality control, and methods to maximize effectiveness and efficiency.
• Proficiency in using databases for record keeping and capturing accurate notes used to solicit and collect data.
• Experience with research tools, with a proven track record of problem-solving and technical support.
• Ability and willingness to gain a thorough understanding of all aspects of BLS work, including survey methodologies, operational processes, and performance metrics.
  
  

Communication And Interpersonal Skills

• Exemplary oral and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all stakeholders, including management, staff, BLS personnel, and external parties.
• Consistently demonstrates professionalism, maintaining a positive demeanor while interacting with team members and other stakeholders.
  
  

Reliability And Adaptability

• Dependable in attendance, adhering to an established work schedule, and capable of working full-time (40 hours per week) with occasional exempt overtime as needed (salaried/exempt role).
• Willingness and capability to assume designated tasks in place of the Task Manager when requested.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, overcoming challenges and driving team success.
  
  

Technical And Analytical Skills

• Ability and willingness to learn new report writing systems to track and monitor daily staff performance.
• Proficient in using technical skills to enhance performance and support staff as needed.
• Ability to analyze data and performance metrics to identify trends, provide actionable insights, and support decision-making.
  
  

Education Qualifications

• Two years of experience using Microsoft Office or equivalent software.
• Experience using the internet for research.
• Adequate knowledge of Crystal Report development and functionality (preferred, but not required).
  
  

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in an office setting with a fast paced and performance-oriented environment.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly and independently required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk; twist; bend; remain stationery for extended periods of time; see, read, comprehend, and manipulate computer screens; communicate via computer and telephone; and travel to various locations throughout the office.