PRINCIPAL RESEARCH ANALYST 0704

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class directs the research activities of a large County department. The incumbent is responsible for formulating integrated analytical information to evaluate proposed and existing systems of the department or to make recommendations concerning the integrated efforts of departments in providing certain public services. Responsibility is included for the selection of statistical techniques, the collection of raw data, the analysis of collected data and the evaluation of results. The incumbent is expected to exercise a considerable degree of independent judgment and initiative in the performance of duties. Supervision may be exercised over a number of technical and clerical personnel, and work is reviewed by an administrative supervisor through conferences and written reports. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Plans research studies to provide data for use in the determination of departmental programs and for effective control of departmental operations;

Develops research designs; constructs and tests methods of data collection; collects information and makes judgments through observation, interview and review of documents;

Utilizes a personal computer and associated software to analyze and present data;

Determines the best methods of data collection and effectiveness indicators for specific analytical studies;

May supervise a number of technical and clerical personnel in the research, analysis and collection of information and data for statistical and scientific research studies;

Makes periodic reports containing descriptive, analytical and evaluative content on the progress and conclusions of research;

Works closely with department heads, statistical and research personnel as well as outside agencies concerned with the evaluation of systems and services.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and techniques involved in the design and operation of research projects; comprehensive knowledge of the methods and techniques used in statistical analysis; thorough knowledge of the principles of administration underlying the operation of large scale programs and facilities; thorough knowledge of analysis methods used to interpret and evaluate data and statistics; good knowledge of personal computers and computer software programs; good knowledge of modern developments, current literature and sources of information in the field of statistical research; ability to establish effective working relationships and to elicit cooperation from other professionals in the development of research projects relevant to the projected plans of Suffolk County departments and agencies; ability to develop effective communications with departments and agencies; ability to develop effective communications with other research groups and information resources; ability to systematically analyze and solve problems; ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to supervise a staff in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

EITHER:

(a)Graduation from a New York State or regionally accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Research, Management and Policy Analysis or a related field, and four (4) years of experience in the development and conduct of managerial and operational research studies; or,

(b) Graduation from a New York State or regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree, and six (6) years of experience in the development and conduct of managerial and operational research studies; or,

(c) Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and ten (10) years of experience in the development and conduct of managerial and operational research studies; or,

(d) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (a), (b) and (c).

PROMOTIONAL

Two (2) years of permanent competitive status as a Senior Research Analyst.

R11/9/93

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

RR1/28/03