Under direct supervision, is responsible for performing advanced applied research work, using research methods, statistical methods, and data management methods in relational databases applications and statistical software to build and analyze data sets. Work involves collecting, compiling, and analyzing department data to identify trends, issues, and outcomes to evaluate the effectiveness of juvenile justice programs and services; performing quality assurance testing and implementing corrective actions on data collected; authors, edits, and reviews reports of findings and outcomes in comprehensive statistical and narrative reports.

• Responsible for preparing programming and syntax for data retrieval and analysis from case management information systems and other applications using structured query language (SQL) and SAS statistical software (SAS); uses research and statistical methods and procedures to analyze data; interpret results, and compiles findings to prepare statistical reports, summaries, presentations, projections and narrative reports in graphic, tabular and composition form
• Utilizes research methods and statistical methods in the collection, preparation, maintenance, and evaluation of juvenile justice system information and data
• Coordinates and conducts performance reviews, organization studies, and special studies, and makes recommendations which include, but are not limited to, work process analyses designed to maximize efficiency, effectiveness, and long-range planning opportunities
• Designs and creates computer programs for research applications
• Responsible for the development, implementation, and monitoring of the department’s research projects assigned by the supervisor
• Conducts surveys; collects, compiles, analyzes, and reports data for the preparation and completion of any required reporting
• Provides data quality assurance procedures and conducts data quality assurance audits on data to the supervisor
• Analyzes and evaluate the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting current research; and
• May act as lead as assigned by the supervisor
• Other duties may be assigned

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Criminal Justice, Social Science, Statistics, or a closely related field, conferred by a college or university accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board plus three (3) years experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience in computer science, statistical analysis, research methodology or education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Prefer experience in computer science, statistical analysis, and research methodology
• Knowledge in statistics, statistical methods, formulas, research techniques, and research methods; application of research to research analysis and program evaluation; measurement, testing, and evaluation of survey instruments; principles, techniques, and philosophies., and knowledge of and programming processes and procedures. Knowledge of statistical software SQL, SPSS Statistical Software, or SAS. Knowledge and ability to interpret and report research findings. Knowledge of the juvenile justice terminology; knowledge of the Texas Family Code; and knowledge of the Texas Juvenile Justice
• Skilled in conducting qualitative and quantitative research, in the use of a computer and applicable software, and in using statistical tools and programs. Skilled in software programs such as Microsoft Suite, SPSS, SAS, knowledge in accessing data using SQL and other various statistical analysis software programs; skill in collecting and analyzing aggregate data; strong organizational skills, time-management skills, and be experienced in managing priorities; strong analytic skills; strong presentation skills
• Ability to plan, organize, and oversee research projects; evaluate research data; ensure the development of measuring instruments concerning reliability, relevance, and validity; interpret and publish research findings; communicate effectively; and supervise the work of others. Ability to perform mathematical, graphic, and statistical analysis; ability to identify and recognize problems and formulate solutions; ability to present data in a clear concise manner; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; and ability to present information to small and large groups
• The employee receives general supervision when performing the essential functions. Employee selects appropriate procedures required to complete work assignments. Conflicting and/or incomplete data is encountered and is reported to the supervisor for direction in resolving
• Judgment is required to select data and accurately complete reports. Uses moderate discretion to complete work assignments. Initiative is frequently required to complete work assignments. Conflicting or incomplete data is frequently encountered in decision-making. Decisions are made regarding individual work priorities
• Frequent contact with co-workers, other County employees, other government agencies, and outside organizations and occasional contact with the general public and Department Heads. Communication is primarily face-to-face, via telephone, and through written correspondence
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation
• Must clear a pre-employment physical and pre-employment drug screen test
• Must have a valid Texas driver’s license or alternate means of transportation
• May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
• Working conditions are primarily in an office environment. The employee frequently faces difficult and stressful situations. The employee has frequent contact with other employees both within and outside of the assigned department. Interactions often involve sensitive or difficult issues that require tact and diplomacy. The employee is required to change tasks frequently and to perform tedious, exacting work. The employee frequently is required to work under time pressures to meet deadlines, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, and work closely with others. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit, use hands to operate office equipment, including telephone and computer keyboard, reach with hands and arms, and talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk; and the employee may be required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 20 pounds, such as books and stacks of records. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus