The DSS Accountability Office’s Research & Response unit (ARR) conducts in-depth accountability studies and analyses to support the integrity of social service programs administered by the New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) and ensure DSS adherence to all statutory, regulatory, and contractual standards. ARR also designs and conducts pilot/demonstration projects aimed at making DSS social service delivery more efficient and effective. ARR work requires the review of large internal and external data sets and utilizes high-level quantitative research techniques such as predictive modeling, geospatial analysis, risk regression models, and scoring mechanisms. ARR also reviews various DSS program area operations, including observations, review of key performance indicators, and interviews with staff. ARR reports findings from all these studies to DSS management to inform decision-making and improve social service delivery.

ARR is recruiting for (1) one City Research Scientist II to function as a Research Coordinator, who will:

- Conduct complex high-level policy analyses and data research projects in areas of social service integrity and programmatic controls. These areas of study include assessments and analyses of agency-related controls such as agency’s populations, and population exceptions, demographic trends; determine levels and categories of verification required e.g., identification, documentation, income, resources, family composition and others to identify the correct population for services. Ensure services meet compliance requirements and standards of social service integrity based on the various facets of integrity controls.

- Research and evaluate agency or city data using Welfare Management System, Medicaid Data Warehouse, New York City open data, interagency data-sharing agreements. Review large complex internal and external data sets utilizing predictive modeling, geospatial analysis, risk regression models, scoring mechanisms and highly quantitative research to extract critical information for demographic analyses of the agency’s client population, socio-economics, low wage labor markets, and demographic trends in family structure.

- Utilize various statistical tools using computer software applications such as Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS), Structured Query Language (SQL), geo-mapping tools; data collection from data warehouse and scientific surveys for integrity research studies.
- Identify relevant policy and programmatic vulnerabilities conducive to integrity control issues and/or compliance. Provides policy interpretation and facilities appropriate integrity responses on research studies.

- Synthesize findings on public policy analysis and research progress reports in the field of integrity controls.

- Meet with the Senior Research Coordinator to discuss research studies including determining appropriate application of research methods. Report on progress, needs, and findings.

- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

1. For Assignment Level I (only physical, biological and environmental sciences and public health) A master's degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological or environmental science or in public health.
To be appointed to Assignment Level II and above, candidates must have:
1. A doctorate degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental or social science and one year of full-time experience in a responsible supervisory, administrative or research capacity in the appropriate field of specialization; or
2. A master's degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental or social science and three years of responsible full-time research experience in the appropriate field of specialization; or
3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least a master's degree in an appropriate field of specialization and at least two years of experience described in "2" above. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can be substituted for the experience required in "1" and "2" above.

NOTE:
Probationary Period
Appointments to this position are subject to a minimum probationary period of one year.

- Experienced in data analytics with extensive knowledge of DSS programs and systems. - Experience using SQL, Excel, Python, SAS, Stata, SPSS, or R. - Experience researching program operations and organizational structure. - Strong qualitative research and interviewing skills. - Strong writing skills. - Track record of fostering innovation, cross-usage of large complicated (and often messy) data sets, prioritizing initiatives and coordinating the deployment of complex projects across departments and different groups of stakeholders. - Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and navigating ambiguity.

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.