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Research Analysis Specialist Senior - Data Scientist

Minnesota Department of Public Safety
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The Research Analysis Specialist Senior - Data Scientist is responsible designing and developing aspects of the Road Safety Information Center (RSIC) data analytics platform. The role will support the implementation of traffic safety-related informatics projects for RSIC data analytics platform and the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). Key responsibilities include designing and developing of data analytics/science related products using techniques such as machine learning, natural language processing, robotics process automation, and artificial intelligence; conducting analysis using software and/or programming languages; and identifying problematic issues and reporting discrepancies and providing appropriate recommendations to leadership. Additionally, this position will develop and deliver training materials and written guidance to support RSIC users and contribute to overall RSIC operations.

The position will also play a key role in identifying subject matter experts and building and maintaining effective working relationships with both internal and external partners.

The incumbent will conduct advanced research using modern data analysis and statistical tools to analyze OTS data as well as data from internal and external partners.

Responsibilities also include evaluating and addressing issues related to electronic data submissions, setting onboarding priorities, and proposing solutions. The position will ensure the quality of data, develop new methodologies, and interpret findings. Finally, the role will lead the preparation of research reports for publication, sharing results with management and key stakeholders.

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

To ensure proper crediting, please include a cover letter and ensure your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed below and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each position held.

  • Three* (3) years of experience conducting applied research or data analytics projects in traffic safety, public health, criminal justice, transportation or a related field.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in statistical software and programming languages, including SQL, Python, and/or SAS for data cleaning, transformation, modeling, and analysis.
  • Experience designing and conducting quantitative and/or mixed-methods research, including data visualization, modeling, trend analysis, and dashboard development.
  • Knowledge of data modeling, data integration, and the ability to work with large and complex datasets from multiple sources (e.g., administrative, public, internal agency databases).
  • Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.

Applicants who meet the above qualifications will be further evaluated on:

  • Ability and commitment to maintain data in accordance with state and federal law and a high level of research ethics.
  • Ability to review and present data in an unbiased manner and to carefully consider diverse perspectives.
  • Ability to effectively design and work on research projects independently, as part of a research team, and with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Ability to identify problems over the course of the research process and develop creative solutions.
  • Experience working independently on complex research or analytical projects with minimal supervision.
  • Verbal and written communication skills, with experience collaborating across interdisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
  • Organization and time management skills to complete research tasks across multiple projects with competing deadlines, and ability to pivot when priorities shift.

*A completed degree that provided sufficient training in statistics/research methods (e.g., data science, public health, public policy, or social science) from an accredited program may substitute the following:

  • Bachelor’s: one (1) year of work experience.
  • Master’s: two (2) years of work experience.
  • PhD (from an R1 or R2 institution, denoting high research activity): three (3) years of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in developing and deploying machine learning, NLP, RPA, or AI-based data solutions in a public sector or research environment.
  • Familiarity with traffic safety, public health informatics, or transportation data systems, particularly in relation to equity-focused program evaluation.
  • Experience managing or contributing to the development of enterprise-level data analytics platforms (e.g., RSIC or similar), including onboarding, user training, and system improvement.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead or mentor others in research and data analysis, including training colleagues and end users in analytic tools or methods.
  • Knowledge of data governance, ethical use of data, and data privacy standards, especially in public or government settings.
  • Experience contributing to or leading Requests for Proposals (RFPs), or engaging in external partner collaboration (e.g., law enforcement, courts, local governments).
  • Familiarity with federal and state traffic safety initiatives, such as those from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file boxes and heavy hand tools or heavier materials with help from others, and moving and transporting light objects frequently. Even though the weights being moved and transported may be a negligible amount, a job in this category may require positioning self to move to a significant degree or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

1) criminal history

2) reference check

3) drivers license check

Application Details

 

How to Apply 

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Megan Lund at megan.lund@state.mn.us .

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Megan Lund at megan.lund@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,200 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

  • Paid vacation and sick leave 
  • 12 paid holidays each year 
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans 
    • Fertility care, including IVF
    • Diabetes care
    • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 
  • 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
  • Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
  • Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
  • Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care 
  • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

  • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
  • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
  • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

 

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS 

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

For accommodations or questions about accessibility specifically relating to this job announcement, please email the Internal Affairs/Affirmative Action Division at marna.johnson@state.mn.us or 651-539-1875.