JJYS Research Consultant III

Full Job Description

Do you have a working knowledge of statistical procedures and research methods? The Division of Juvenile Justice and Youth Services with the Department of Health and Human Services seeks a Research Consultant III to help meet the Division's needs for information and research about Utah's juvenile justice system. This is a senior level research consulting job in which you will design, conduct and coordinate research projects, draft policies or position papers for departments, institutions, and offices. You will need to have expert knowledge, skills and abilities related to designing, conducting and coordinating research projects. As the Research Consultant you will work regularly with other members of the Division's State Office, the Division's service delivery offices, allied agencies, and community members.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Manage a research program: direct the research and/or analysis of projects by establishing priorities, setting goals, and developing research standards.

• Coordinate or lead program activities, services, and/or program implementation.

• Regularly present final recommendations and issues directly to senior management, boards, commissions, local governments, or the legislature.

• Develop and implement procedures in response to agency policy, state and federal laws.

• Develop approaches for implementation of an idea, program or change in operations.

• Interpret, clarify, explain and apply agency policy and procedures, business practices, federal or state laws and regulations.

• Evaluate all aspects of research projects, project findings, and operational data regarding technical merits and implications.

• Write policy and position papers, technical reports, articles or related material based on research, investigation or analysis.

• Design, develop, and conduct a variety of research projects; determine appropriate methodologies, information sources, sampling strategies, and data collection tools.

• Facilitate the use of research data to improve existing programs and utilization of resources.

• Testify at hearing to provide pertinent agency information and technical support.

Minimum Requirements

• Extensive experience with research and statistical methodologies
• At least 5 years of practical experience using spreadsheets, office automation programs, and statistical software to manage, analyze and report on information.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Good communication skills.
• Practical experience preparing technical reports that are accessible to non-technical audiences.

Preference
May be given to applicants with any of the above items.

Our Team
Juvenile Justice and Youth Services’ employees have opportunities to see what the impacts that their hard work and dedication do for the well-being of today's youth. It is imperative that our employees provide opportunities for youth to acquire skills to successfully function in their homes, schools, and communities. Employees will provide support and guidance to the youth we serve while they are transitioning into adulthood. Together, we can help to improve the lives and welfare of youth in our communities.

Our team works with at-risk and delinquent youth in a professional team environment to supervise, teach pro-social skills, and attain positive behavioral outcomes. The work assignment may be in a community setting, a residential shelter or treatment setting, or in a secure youth correctional facility. The work is dynamic, challenging and rewarding as youth mature and change due to the interventions provided by Youth Development Associates and Specialists.

Our Agency
The Department of Health and Human Services is dedicated to providing care for individuals and families in Utah. Utah Division of Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS) provides a continuum of intervention, supervision and rehabilitation programs to youth offenders while assuring public safety. For more information on Juvenile Justice and Youth Services with the Department of Health and Human Services, please click here!

Additional Information

Risks found in the typical office setting, which is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated, e.g., safe use of office equipment, avoiding trips and falls, observing fire regulations, etc.Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying light items; driving an automobile, etc.

Special physical demands are not required to perform the work.