Job/Position DescriptionResearch Specialist: The Research Specialist performs complex (journey-level) research work, data collection and analysis under the direction of the Texas Civil Commitment Office. Work involves developing and maintaining research data sets, documenting data structure and definitions, developing audit and monitoring tools utilizing Microsoft Excel advanced functions as well as entering data into existing tools and gathering, compiling and organizing data to produce reports pertaining to the Texas Civil Commitment Office (TCCO) program and functions. The Research Specialist completes both routine, ongoing data entry and analysis as well as ad hoc reports or analysis as needed by TCCO management. The Research Specialist works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This position is not a remote position and is required to report in-person to the TCCO office at 4616 W. Howard Lane Austin, TX 78728. Essential Job FunctionsDevelops and maintains research data sets, documents data structure and definitions, develops audit and monitoring tools utilizing Microsoft Excel advanced functions to support the collection of data to assist program staff with their monitoring and audit functions and to aid management staff in determining staff and contractor compliance with agency policies, procedures and contracts. Includes the development of reporting functions in Excel based upon complex datasets and combining multiple datasets.Performs routine troubleshooting to assist users with existing audit and monitoring tools. Completes fiscal year conversion of audit and monitoring tools to transfer year-end data into tools for the new fiscal year. Utilizes historical data and trend forecasting to develop caseload and related projections to aid TCCO Executive Management in determining staffing, space and related needs and developing appropriation requests. Monitors progress toward meeting projections and provides updates to TCCO Executive Management on an ongoing basis. Completes accurate and timely data entry into existing tools to aid program staff with their monitoring and audit functions. Collects and analyzes data from TCCO systems and databases to complete ad hoc reports related to topics assigned by TCCO executive management. During legislative session, compiles information related to filed bills for tracking by TCCO executive management. Coordinates, plans, develops, and monitors research projects to include gathering data, compiling data, analyzing and querying data. Interacts with users, subject matter experts, executive management, and/or outside entities in defining problems, understanding the agencyand#146;s programs, and gathering information for reporting. Conducts both long- and short-term studies.Plans and conducts research on the agencyand#146;s programs, including current and historical state policies and regulations and the policies and regulations related to similar programs in other jurisdictions. Requires the ability to conduct ad hoc analysis and prepare reports in short timeframes.Explores opportunities for process automation to maximize efficiency.Registrations, Licensure Requirements or CertificationsKnowledge Skills AbilitiesSkill in creating written reports regarding findings and tailoring reports to a variety of audiences.Skill in gathering and analyzing data to inform executive management decision-making.Knowledge of running queries, report writing, and presenting findi https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=610860 Copy the URL in the preceding sentence to an Internet Explorer browser to apply to the job directly through the Texas Health and Human Services Career Portal.