Reports to the Director of Data Dissemination and Reporting. This position performs key policy analysis, senior-level planning, consultation and oversight and coordinating functions, and data research and analytics functions for the Open Records team in support of HHS research and policy development and the analysis of HHS data related to key health care issues. Leads and conducts advanced research and analysis to support HHS agencies’ programs efforts related to Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, TANF, and other HHS program areas; oversees project methodology, planning, development, statistical analysis and reporting; applies advanced level programming to clean and prepare large raw datasets for analysis; and programs complex logic on HHS-related data to identify trends and patterns in utilization and costs. Oversees the preparation of a variety of written reports, studies, and data products which contain analyses of HHS data, the methods and procedures used, and the relevant sources referenced, and ensures all findings are complete and accurate and compiled in a timely and organized manner. Provides consultative services and technical assistance to HHS leadership and program areas, other state agencies, and other external stakeholders; reviews, interprets, and analyzes federal and state statutes, rules and regulations, guidance and procedures; and provides options for senior and executive management for data-driven decision making. Trains, leads, assigns, and/or prioritizes the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1. Oversees the coordination of large research projects of team members. Attends meetings and advances DAP and agency priorities on behalf of the Director. Engages in and oversees collaboration and communication among staff, HHS agencies/programs, DAP units, HHS executive leadership, contractors, other state agencies, and external stakeholders. Provides expert consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in developing methods and strategies for effective research of programs, data, analyses and reporting functions. (20%)

EJF 2. Plans, prioritizes, and performs complex policy research, analysis, and evaluation of Health and Human Services programs, policy, and operations. Leads, oversees, reviews and performs advanced analytical work on comprehensive research, data collection and analysis of HHS agencies’ programs related to Medicaid (including Managed Care),CHIP, SNAP, TANF, and other HHS program areas. (20%)

EJF 3. Trains, leads, assigns, and/or prioritizes the work of the Health Services Program Team Research Specialists. (15%)

EJF 4. Plans, coordinates and oversees highly advanced data analytics functions on large datasets via various statistical and programming platforms. Develops, leads, implements and reviews research methods and analytical procedures; assesses validity of statistical methods and/or procedures for appropriate analyses; applies advanced statistical methods to all related research and data sources; and coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis, and preparation of detailed report findings. (20%)

EJF 5. Oversees the development and implementation of effective techniques and statistical methods used. Reviews the work of others and provides technical guidance; reviews statistical program code for logic and syntax errors; and reviews deliverables for presentation and applicability. (10%)

EJF 6. Effectively communicates verbally and in writing data analysis and statistical findings to internal and external entities, including legislators and advocacy groups. Oversees the preparation of materials in response to requests for program information. Prepares administrative reports and studies and performs specialized research projects. Analyzes operations and problems and the preparation of reports of findings and recommendations. Oversees the completion of and monitors required performance reports and recommends appropriate changes. (10%)

EJF 7. Oversees the performance of a variety of technical, training, research, planning, policy, program assessment, and administrative activities for DAP. Oversees the analysis, implementation and documentation of program policies, procedures, manuals and standards and provides training and technical assistance to staff. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to Medicaid and other public assistance programs.
Knowledge of patient level health and demographic data (e.g. Medicaid administrative and clinical data, Medicaid and/or CHIP eligibility data).
Knowledge of or familiarity with social science research methods, statistical techniques, mathematics, rules-based logic, and their application to research analysis.
Knowledge of medical records systems or clinical coding practices.
Knowledge of computer programming principles, spreadsheet macros, and database design.
Skill in programming in SQL, SAS, SPSS, STATA, R or other database management/statistical software packages (SAS strongly preferred).
Skill in using formulas and manipulating large databases in EXCEL, Access or other spreadsheet software.
Skill in graphical and tabular presentation of data.
Skill in verbal and written communications, including clear communication of complex data findings and methodologies.
Ability to lead large data-driven projects from beginning to end.
Ability to effectively manage multiple concurrent projects with competing priorities and evolving requirements.
Ability to manage, manipulate and analyze complex databases.
Ability to develop and interpret statistical data charts and tables.
Ability to interpret and present research findings.
Ability to plan, organize and conduct research projects.
Ability to communicate effectively.
Ability to train, lead, assign, and/or prioritize the work of others.
Ability to clearly document policies and procedures.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Initial Selection Criteria:
A minimum of four years college level education or graduation from an accredited college or university in social and behavioral sciences, natural sciences, or related field. Master’s degree or higher preferred. Experience analyzing data using computer software package applications including, but not limited to, SPSS, SAS or SQL. Four or more years work experience with collection, analyses, and/or dissemination of data. College level education and work experience may substitute for each other, up to four years. Work experience with collection, analyses, and/or dissemination of health and/or human services data is preferred.

Additional Information:

MOS Code:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include: 35F, IT, 23, 02111, 8E000. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.