DPS - HSO - Public Safety Research Coordinator - 1671 - Austin, United States - TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

: Performs complex (journey-level) program management of the Texas Department of Public Safety's research program. Work involves providing oversight and support to DPS divisions for management of research projects and to understand potential research support needs. This position requires high-level communication, management, planning, and organizational skills, along with knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position. Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Coordinates with and assists DPS divisions in assessing potential research support needs and developing focused research topics and questions.

2. Develops and maintains comprehensive DPS research agenda and develops program management processes.

3. Builds and maintains a broad network of relationships with potential research partners and programs at Texas colleges and universities and with other organizations that conduct research on public safety topics.

4. Assists with design and implementation of a formal DPS internship program, working with external partners to identify quality interns and coordinating with DPS stakeholders and leadership to develop internal processes and requirements for hiring and management of interns.

5. Coordinates with potential research partners to share the DPS research agenda, explain the program, and recruit volunteer researchers for specific issues and questions.

6. Provides assistance with research project management to DPS divisions as needed, to include defining research scope, methodology, expectations, and deliverables.

7. Assigns researchers to support DPS divisions with specific research projects and ensures appropriate coordination and communication between DPS and research teams.

8. Evaluates program results and provides recommendations on changes to program goals, objectives, policies, and procedures as needed. Reviews and analyzes pertinent professional literature to identify more efficient and effective methods for accomplishing program objectives.

9. Participates in internal/external research related conferences and meetings to build and maintain relationships and stay apprised of current trends and best practices in research on public safety issues.

10. Provides recommendations as to desirability of continued or new research in particular areas.

11. Attends work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.

12. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS:

Education – Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in political science, sociology, economics, criminal justice, or related field involving social science research.

Experience – Minimum (3) years of experience working in one or more of the following: research, education, law enforcement, homeland security, emergency management, military, or other fields related to government operations. Experience with independent management of programs or projects preferred.

Licensure and/or Certification – If driving is required, must possess a valid driver license from state of residence.

Regulatory knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures. Working knowledge of scholarly publishing processes and standards.

Supervisory/Managerial/Leadership skills – Knowledge of management/supervisory methods and principles, performance/productivity standards, and fiscal/budget management. Ability to develop plans, policies, and procedures for efficient workflow and overall effectiveness. Ability to provide clear direction to others, promote teamwork and motivate others to accomplish goals. Ability to effectively manage programs and projects in coordination with a variety of stakeholders.

Technology – Proficiency with Microsoft Office and appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems (e.g. CAPPS, SharePoint) and be able to learn new software/systems.

Interpersonal Skills – Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers. Must demonstrate DPS' core values: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Teamwork.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism. Must be able to independently manage multiple simultaneous projects.

Presentation/Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations and/or communications to a variety of audiences and/or individuals. Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of stakeholders across multiple disciplines.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner. Must demonstrate strong knowledge of and skill in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Ability to conduct research, prepare reports, and present results of analyses in a manner easily understood by laypersons.

Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, problem solving and critical reasoning skills.

Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.

Schedule and/or Travel – Availability for after-hours, emergencies and weekend work is required. Travel statewide as needed.

PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Environment: Office/Indoors;

• Ambulatory skills, e.g. stand, walk, sit, and reach;

• Hand-eye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;

• Ability to speak, hear, and exercise visual acuity;

• Ability to transfer weights of up to twenty (20) pounds anticipated for this position;

• Driving requirements: Occasional (up to 25%);