Research Data Specialist III

Under the general direction of the Secretary and Undersecretary of the Government Operations Agency, the Research Data Specialist III (RDS III) independently performs complex data analysis and analytical studies in support of GovOps oversight of government programs across its departments, boards, and offices. Working closely with the Secretary, Undersecretary, and Deputy Secretaries, the RDS III analyzes statewide initiatives such as procurement reform, state budgets, program modernization, and operational efficiency; identifies program and policy insights; and presents findings and recommendations to executive stakeholders. The RDS III serves as a data and analytics subject expert, prepares analysis for executive and external reporting, and advances data-informed decision-making across GovOps. This position works independently and does not supervise or serve in a lead capacity over other staff., Describe your experience utilizing advanced data tools (ie: Python, SQL, and PowerBI) to analyze large datasets. Provide a specific example of a time you created a dashboard, visual, or report that summarized complex operational data. How did your findings influence a specific decision or policy adjustment?

1. Describe a situation where you had to evaluate a program’s performance or operational efficiency. What methodology did you use to gather and analyze the data, and how did you communicate your results to stakeholders to support reform or improvement?

2. Describe a time you managed a complex or sensitive project with minimal supervision. How did you ensure your analysis was accurate and aligned with high-level strategic goals, and how did you present your findings to executive-level staff to ensure they were “data-informed”?

Note: Applicants who do not follow these instructions may be disqualified from the selection process. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.

For helpful guidance on writing an effective SOQ, please see our Work4CA guide.

Application Instructions

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application. Final Filing Date: 10/12/2026

Who May Apply Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply., Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method for applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.

• Electronic Submission: Application and any required applicable documents may be submitted electronically through CalCareers account. The application packages must be received electronically by 11:59 p.m. on the final filing date as stated on the job vacancy announcement.
• U.S Postal Service Mail: Application and any applicable required documents may be submitted by mail. The envelope must be postmarked before or on the final filing date as stated on the job vacancy announcement.

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:

• Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining executive-level dashboards and interactive visualizations using PowerBI (or similar tools) to turn complex data into actionable insights.

• Proficiency in SQL and scripting languages like Python for data extraction, manipulation, and automation of large, cross-departmental datasets.

• Experience establishing and maintaining data protocols, ensuring data integrity, and conducting quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) on large datasets.

• Proven ability to synthesize highly technical or voluminous data into concise, non-technical briefing papers, executive summaries, and policy recommendations for high-level stakeholders.

• Experience performing operational efficiency studies, budget analysis, or performance measurement within a government or complex organizational setting.

This position provides hybrid telework opportunities, with employees required to work in-person at least two days per week. This is subject to change based on operational needs.