Research Scientist

Job Description and Duties

• Conduct biostatistical analyses (using statistical analysis software such as SAS, R, STATA, Excel, etc.) on qualitative and quantitative data collected by the program, including from studies of various designs, in order to assess and identify trends in antimicrobial use, antimicrobial resistance, and associated risk factors

• Provide analytical feedback on, and support development of, research study designs and instruments used to evaluate and report on antimicrobial use and resistance, and to compare program results with those of other entities, including State and Federal efforts

• Research additional analytical methodologies, including risk assessment strategies, that may contribute to a better understanding of antimicrobial drug use practices and the potential impact of antimicrobial drug use on antimicrobial resistance

• Oversee and manage contracted research projects with external entities, such as universities, including: developing knowledge base pertaining to livestock industries relevant to specific projects, monitoring project progress, working with contractors to resolve issues as they arise, evaluating project performance, making recommendations to senior management, and conducting presentations or briefings on project outcomes

• Evaluate the adequacy of existing and planned surveillance studies and, with guidance from the Research Scientist Supervisor II and Veterinarian Specialist, design supplemental monitoring projects as needed to meet program requirements and goals

Candidates may perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

The duties of this position are mostly conducted indoors; however, the incumbent may occasionally be required to work outside and under difficult conditions.

Travel (including nights, weekends, and holidays) for extensive periods may be required for meetings and events as well as during an emergency response. During emergency response periods, duties may require working long shifts at hours other than the normal work hours.

Regular or recurring telework may occur as part of the incumbent’s ongoing regular schedule in accordance with CDFAs Telework Policy. A complete list of working conditions can be found in the Duty Statement.

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

Incumbent must possess a bachelor’s degree in Epidemiology/Biostatistics Science or a closely related field and one year of research experience in a field relevant to the stated specialty. (One year towards completion of an advanced degree of the stated specialty or a closely related field may be substituted for this experience.) The incumbent must possess a valid California driver license subject to driving record approval.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

Under the supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor II, and leadership of the Veterinarian (Specialist) for Surveys and Studies, the Research Scientist I (RSI) helps to design and implement studies, compile data, perform biostatistical analysis of programmatic information, develop reports, and draw conclusions from research investigations.

The incumbent must be able to assist senior scientists with research studies, field trials, and investigations; analyze situations accurately and make appropriate decisions using sound scientific and biostatistical theories, principles, and methods that lead to effective and reliable recommendations; work independently to complete assigned work; work effectively with other team members on program projects and investigations; work well under pressure; meet required deadlines; take effective actions; collaborate with Federal, State, local, university, and other entities in the discharge of program activities; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, stakeholders, decision-makers, and the general public.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

• More than two weeks of paid vacation time within the first year of service, sick leave and paid holidays.

• A benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a CalPERS pension, opportunities to create retirement savings through a 401(k) or 457 plan, and the opportunity to receive health insurance in retirement.

• On-the-job training and paid professional development days.

• The ability to contribute to the success of a first-in-the-nation program and the opportunity to learn and collaborate with local, state, and federal leaders.

• An office environment that supports a balanced lifestyle, flexible telework opportunities, and opportunities for in-state and out-of-state travel on assignment or to attend meetings/conferences in-person or virtually, depending on opportunity, availability, and staff enthusiasm.

Hard Copy Applications:

If you are dropping off or mailing in your application, please use the Examination/Employment Application, STD 678 Revised 6/2024 version.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts