DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for performing a variety of complex, difficult and diverse research projects in connection with local government or specific departmental issues or functions. The work is performed by compiling, assembling and interpreting data from a multitude of sources. An employee in this class is responsible for planning and laying out appropriate methods for assigned studies using standard methods of research, data collection and analysis and determining the best method to secure and present this data through graphs, charts, computerized formats or textual reports or a combination of techniques. This position differs from that of a Research Technician I by virtue of the complexity and scope of the assignments and the responsibility of assisting government administration by providing recommendations for problem solutions of difficult issues based on results of research, the interpretation of data and conclusions from studies. Depending on area of assignment, and/or the complexity or size of the study to be performed, supervision may be exercised over a small number of employees including other professional research staff, research aides, and/or clerical employees. Work is received from an administrative superior and reviewed through conferences at various stages of progress and at completion. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Performs work involving the researching, collecting, interpreting and analyzing of raw data essential to the final preparation of research projects.

Performs long-term research projects relating to various areas of government and its functions, specific departmental issues, legislative matters, or efficient and economic operations.

Plans, organizes and lays out appropriate methods for assigned projects or studies using standard research and/or statistical techniques of data collection and analysis; may assign, collate and/or interpret findings of subordinate employees working on the project.

Collects, collates and/or tabulates research data for preliminary review.

Determines the best method to secure and present information based on the goal of the project or study.

Prepares reports including analysis and interpretation of results, presentation of conclusions and recommendations or summary of findings.

Prepares suggested problem solutions for recommendation to administrators based on interpretation and conclusions of the study.

Attends and participates in meetings explaining projects proposed and completed and to discuss methods, problems, goals and/or findings of study.

Compiles data from a variety of sources and assembles it in graphic or textual forms or in a computer generated format.

Analyzes results of research studies and prepares reports as needed, recommends further study in specific areas as needed and prepares recommendations for review by administrators of supervisory departmental staff.

Uses a personal computer in carrying out many of the duties of this class.

WHEN ASSIGNED TO THE ONONDAGA COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT:

Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.

Utilizes appropriate methods for interacting effectively and professionally with persons of all ages and from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, educational, racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, lifestyles and physical abilities.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of standard research methods and techniques.

Good knowledge of basic statistical concepts.

Good knowledge of the function, organization and goals of the division or department to which assigned.

Working knowledge of relevant source material relating to governmental issues.

Ability to prepare accurate, concise and clear written summaries and to give concise precis of essential points, facts and findings in an oral report to a group or individuals.

Ability to secure, verify and tabulate information pertinent to each assignment.

Ability to prepare written, graphic, tabular and/or numeric material in a clear and concise manner.

Ability to effectively manipulate a microprocessor or CRT terminal where applicable or necessary in the course of duties.

04110

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Ability to present ideas clearly, concisely and effectively.

Ability to relate well with others.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Promotion:

One (1) year of permanent competitive class status in the title of Research Technician I.

Open Competitive:

Possession of a Master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees in Public Health, Public Administration, Business Administration, Statistics, Research Analysis or Management Analysis; or,
Possession of a Master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees which included the completion of at least 9 semester credit hours in statistics, research, analysis, or an equivalent; or,
Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Baccalaureate degree and two (2) years of professional level* work experience, or its part time equivalent, as a researcher, statistician or research analyst; or,
Six (6) years of paraprofessional or professional level work experience, or its part time equivalent, two (2) years of which must have been professional level* work experience as a researcher, statistician or research analyst

*Simple data or information gathering does not qualify as professional level work experience.

“Professional” experience requires specialized and theoretical knowledge usually acquired through college education or through that experience and other training which provides comparable knowledge. “Professional” experience in general involves independence of action and personal responsibility for actions.

03/2017 Revised