RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST I

Are you looking to make a difference and join a highly motivated team working on issues critical to ensuring the safety and sustainability of California? The Data Analytics Division is seeking a Limited Term Research Data Specialist I (RDSI) to help enable data-informed decision making.

Under the general direction of the Research Data Supervisor II, within the Development Unit of the Data Analytics Division, the incumbent will independently perform bulk data processing, updates, quality control, and database ingestion of utility data submissions. The RDSI will work under general direction to develop and implement tools for analyzing, viewing, and interpreting geographic, demographic, utility infrastructure, excavation, and other data in programmatic analyses of activities associated with wildfire risk mitigation and underground infrastructure safety. The RDSI will work under general direction to inform Energy Safety’s oversight of utility risk models. The incumbent is distinguished as a consultant and advisor to management on procedural and policy matters involving the analysis of both real-word and model-related data.

The Data Analytics Division supports the operational needs of the Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety. The division creates, maintains, distributes, and operationalizes information to enable data-supported decisions that are faster, more consistent, and more transparent. Energy Safety values strong analytical and communication skills and seeks individuals who perform well in team environments.

Occasional travel may be required. Travel will be performed less than 5% of the time.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Working Conditions

Effective July 1, 2025, The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee shall receive a 3 percent reduction in pay in exchange for 5 hours PLP 2025 leave credits, monthly. The salary range(s) included in the job advertisement do not reflect the 3 percent reduction in pay. This position may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule for applicants residing in California, in accordance with Government Code Section 14200 and the Department’s current telework policy. A hybrid schedule typically includes working remotely and physically reporting to the office a minimum of 4 days per week; however, the specific number of in-office days and the overall telework schedule are subject to change at the sole discretion of the Department based on operational needs, policy changes, or direction from State leadership. Employees may be required to report to their designated work location with minimal notice. Telework does not alter the terms and conditions of employment, essential job functions, or compliance with departmental policies.

• Energy Safety will utilize a Hybrid Remote/In-person approach enabling staff to telework, when approved by management.

• Energy Safety will use shared workspaces for most staff (hoteling stations) when required to work in the office.

• Incumbent may be required to travel, including overnight stays, and on occasion be required to work unusual hours

• May be asked to work irregular hours, nights, and/or weekends to meet the Department’s business needs.

• Dress appropriately for a business/government environment.

• Overtime or working outside of work schedule., 1. Describe your experience using Azure Data Factory, SQL, Microsoft Power Automate, or a similar tool. Describe a specific product you developed in detail, how it worked, and its users, and something they found useful about it. 2. Describe your experience with communicating your research findings, including ongoing reporting with your chain of command, organization-wide presentations or trainings, or publications/public presentations. 3. Describe one or more specific analysis projects, how you carried them out, and what your results were. Include whether they involved data presentation and summary statistics, synthesizing multiple sources, development of UI/UX for end users, complex statistical testing, or machine learning tools. Failure to include and complete the SOQ may result in disqualification for interview.

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:

• Experience using SQL to query database systems
• Experience with development of data analysis and visualization tools with Python
• Experience with data QA/QC processes and data cleaning
• Familiarity with spatial data, ideally using ArcGIS affiliated software but not required
• Familiarity with PowerBI or other business analytics software but not required
• Experience presenting findings and recommendations to stakeholders, management, and subject matter experts

• Interest and enthusiasm for power systems, safety, and risk modeling, * Transfer Eligibility - Must have current employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above).

• Reinstatement Eligibility - Previously obtained permanent employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above).

In some special circumstances, candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position, but who do not have one of the types of eligibility listed above, may be hired. However, this is rare, and the preferred method of appointment is through eligibility as described above.

Pulled from the full job description

• Loan forgiveness
• Military leave
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance

• Flexible spending account, This position is a 12-month Limited Term (LT) and may be extended up to 24 months or become permanent. If you have permanent status and have passed probation, you have mandatory reinstatement rights into your former position/classification at the end of this LT appointment. You will be separated from state service if you have not had prior permanent or probationary civil service status. During this 12-month limited-term assignment, you may be entitled to receive health, dental, and vision benefits. You will also earn State Service and accrue monthly leave credits. This is statewide recruitment. Reporting location will be the closest OEIS office to the selected candidate’s residence., There are many benefits to joining our team! The State of California has a generous benefits package, some benefits include:

• Medical Benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Holidays and leave
• Defined benefit retirement program
• Savings Plus Program (401(k), 457)
• Commute Program
• Employee Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Account

Some added benefits include: Flexible Work Hours, Telework Opportunities, Health, Dental & Vision Benefits, Paid Sick & Vacation, Retirement, Basic Group Term Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, 11 Paid Holidays, 401(k) & 457 plans, Military Leave, Student Loan Forgiveness, Long Term Care, Group Legal Services, and Reimbursement Accounts.