Job Description
Job Details Working Title: Senior Survey Research Scientist Job Class: Research Scientist 3 Agency: Health Department - Job ID : 81377
- Location : St. Paul
- Telework Eligible : Yes / Hybrid
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 1/28/2025.
- Date Posted : 01/22/2025
- Closing Date : 02/11/2025
- Hiring Agency : Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
- Division/Unit : Health Systems / Health Policy (HP) / Health Economics Program (HEP) Health Policy Research
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift / 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : Yes / Up to 5%
- Salary Range: $36.71 - $54.60 / hourly; $76,650 - $114,004 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)
- Work Area : Health Systems / Health Policy (HP) / Health Economics Program (HEP) Health Policy Research
- FLSA : Exempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary Are you passionate about using research & evidence to inform policy development in Minnesota on health care access and coverage? In this role, you'll be the MDH lead to maintain, evolve and use data from the Minnesota Health Access Survey (MNHA) , a research partnership between MDH and the University of Minnesota (UMN) School of Public Health. You will participate in all aspects of survey research for this premier research tool in Minnesota, from instrument development and validation, to sample design, weighting, data analysis & research, and writing to contribute valuable insights for policy makers, the administration and the general public. You'll drive the planning, design, and execution of advanced statistical research studies that inform decisions impacting Minnesota's health care market and shaping policy development. And you'll partner with a talented research team at the UMN, community advocates, a survey vendor, and colleagues in MDH and across the administration to effectively use the MNHA and establish the new panel component of the survey. Beyond data, you'll play a crucial role in shaping public understanding by preparing presentations and sharing your findings within the administration, in public forums, and across stakeholder groups.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Lead the ongoing refinement and implementation of the Minnesota Health Access Survey (MNHA), a biennial area probability survey on health insurance and health care access in Minnesota.
- Participate in all aspects of survey development and data analysis to estimate the rate of uninsurance in Minnesota, sources of coverage in the states, and disparities in health access.
- Lead research studies to analyze drivers of changes in health access and affordability in Minnesota using econometric analysis, advanced statistical techniques, and complex survey research methodologies.
- Advise other researchers on survey methodologies, research procedures, and statistical techniques to ensure that current and valid techniques are used in conducting studies.
- Monitor, research, and analyze state and federal health related activities and policies.
- Independently develop and produce descriptive information and presentation materials based on research, and present information in legislative hearings, meetings, seminars, and other public forums.
This is a hybrid telework position that requires occasional in-office work in the downtown St. Paul location and travel to in-person meetings, with the opportunity to participate in occasional national research meetings. Telework will be based on the business needs of the unit and is at supervisory discretion.
This position has a flexible start and end time within first shift hours (typically 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure your resume/application clearly describe your experience in the areas listed below and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of the minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.
- Four (4) years of experience* conducting survey research, including data analysis.
- Experience must be in a health care, health insurance, or a similar field doing at least three (3) out of four (4) of the following:
- Conducting and administering health surveys.
- Effectively using data visualization techniques.
- Successfully managing longitudinal projects.
- Synthesizing research findings from surveys into written reports
- Experience using STATA or a comparable statistical analysis package
*A degree in a related field such as Public Health, Health Services Research, Psychology, Economics, Political Science, or Sociology may count towards professional experience as follows:
- Associate's = 6 months.
- Bachelor's = 12 months.
- Master's = 18 months.
- PhD = 24 months.
Qualifications to be further assessed in the interview process:
- Demonstrated knowledge of the methodological issues involved with health surveys derived from complex sample design, including the need to use weighted data sets.
- Ability to translate technical information into accessible language for a variety of audiences, especially non-technical audiences.
- Experience providing expert guidance on research methodologies to ensure studies followed best practices in survey and statistical analysis.
- Managing project timelines.
Preferred Qualifications - Experience using, and advising and training others in the use of advanced research methods, statistical techniques, and research best practices.
- Experience developing and recommending policy options based on research findings.
- Experience developing new data sources using validated data collection methods to enhance research capabilities.
- Expert user of STATA, Tableau, or a comparable business intelligence tool.
- Experience conducting survey research, including data analysis, on health insurance and health care access, especially in partnership with contractors and survey research organizations.
Additional Requirements - This position requires successful completion of a background check and employment reference 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 .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Dani Whitney at dani.whitney@state.mn.us or 651-201-3701 .
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 Dani Whitney at dani.whitney@state.mn.us .
If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Health ADA Coordinator at health.hr.ada@state.mn.us .
About Health Department Come work for one of the best public health systems in the nation and you will contribute to our mission to protect, maintain and improve the health of all Minnesotans. We are working hard to achieve our vision for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving, and all people have what they need to be healthy. Our collaborative, mission-driven work environment is a major factor in promoting a high level of employee health awareness, employee longevity and job satisfaction.
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.
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