Job Posting: Research Associate II

Department of Justice

JC-510655
-
Research Associate II
RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II

$7,640.00 - $9,561.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Final Filing Date: 3/30/2026

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the Research Data Supervisor (RDSup) II in the Community, Health, and Environmental Research Section (CHERS), the RDS II serves as a project lead, independently conducting a wide range of advanced research methods and complex data analytics on criminal and social justice topics, with an emphasis on issues that affect marginalized communities, to support the Department’s various research activities and mandated reports.

The RDS II keeps themselves informed of relevant extant empirical research and determines appropriate research methodologies for ad-hoc research and reporting requests. The RDS II collects and manages data using appropriate data analytics tools and software (e.g., R, Python, SQL, GIS, qualitative analysis software, survey collection tools, etc.) while ensuring compliance with established security protocols. Data management and analytics responsibilities include creating, implementing, maintaining, and enhancing data analysis protocols involving both structured and unstructured data; querying, validating, and organizing datasets; conducting advanced statistical analyses to identify patterns, trends, and assess potential impact, particularly in areas where changes are being implemented and a body of knowledge or experience does not exist. The RDS II leads the efforts to interpret results, develop actionable solutions, and support informed recommendations. The RDS II serves as lead to clearly and concisely summarize findings through written reports, PowerPoint slides and/or infographics, including data visualizations to facilitate comprehension. Additionally, the RDS II clearly and concisely presents findings to internal and external stakeholders, including executive management to support scientific, programmatic, and policy decisions.

The RDS II is responsible for coordinating, designing, and directing high-profile, varied, or complex research projects. The RDS II provides consultation services on research and analysis issues for Departmental units as needed. The RDS II is responsible for liaising with stakeholders, both inside and outside of the Department, and is responsible for interfacing with upper management and the Executive Branch on research issues. May act as a lead over Research Data Specialist I, Research Data Analysts I/II, Student Assistants, and/or Volunteers.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Working Conditions

In a remote work environment, home office, or similar environment in California. At the office, an enclosed windowed office with a smoke-free environment. May be required to sit at a computer terminal while performing research and other duties up to eight hours a day.

Travel to designated offices may be required.

 

This position is designated for telework under Government Code section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California and may require reporting to headquarters or field offices and facilities to fulfill operational needs. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the Department of Justice policies.

Minimum Requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

Additional Documents

Position Details

Job Code #:
JC-510655
Position #(s):
420-948-5758-901
Working Title:
Research Associate II
Classification:
RESEARCH DATA SPECIALIST II
$7,640.00 - $9,561.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
United States
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Work Shift:
Day
Work Week:
Monday - Friday

Department Information

  • This position is located in the Office of General Counsel, Office of Information Security and Research Services, Research Services Branch, Community, Health, and Environmental Research Section. This position can be filled in Sacramento County, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, Alameda County, San Francisco County or Fresno County. 
  • Please disregard the SROA/Surplus language below, as the Department of Justice requires applicants to submit their SROA/Surplus Letter if that is the basis of their eligibility. 
  • For more information about the Department, please visit the Attorney General’s website at www.oag.ca.gov.
  • Please note that all new to state employees will be given the minimum salary of the classification. For current state employees and/or those with reinstatement rights, your salary will be determined in accordance with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations. 
  • Personal Leave Program: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned were negotiated and agreed upon by each bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact of these temporary reductions can vary based on your bargaining unit and/or federal and state tax withholdings. For additional information please visit Human Resources Manual - CalHR

Special Requirements

  • A fingerprint check will be required.
  • Clearly indicate the Job Control Code (JC-510655) and the title of this position in the "Examination or Job Title(s) For Which You Are Applying" section located on the first page of your State Application.
  • If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must submit a copy of your transcript or diploma. An official transcript will be required upon appointment.

Application Instructions

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date: 3/30/2026

Who May Apply

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

How To Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

Address for Mailing Application Packages

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

Department of Justice
Kelly Imai
Attn: Kelly Imai (JC-510655)
1300 I Street
Suite 930
Sacramento, CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

Department of Justice
Kelly Imai
Kelly Imai (JC-510655)
1300 I Street
Suite 930
Sacramento, CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • School Transcripts
  • Statement of Qualifications - The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required for this position. The SOQ is a narrative discussion of the candidate’s education, training, experience, and skills as it relates to the desirable qualifications and duties for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of each candidate’s ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. The SOQ should explain in detail why the candidate believes his or her knowledge, skills, and abilities could apply towards this position. Your response should be typed in Arial 12 point font and no more than two pages in length. Failure to follow instructions will result in disqualification. Resumes will not be considered a substitute for the SOQ.
  • Other - List of References 
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to conduct univariate and multivariate statistics
  • Ability to conduct statistical analyses using software such as SPSS, R
  • Ability to develop, analyze, and interpret complex research findings
  • Knowledge of research, survey, and analytical methods and techniques
  • Ability to articulate information in a clear, concise, and professional manner in a public setting
  • Ability to prepare and present technical reports and make recommendations
  • Ability to gain and maintain the confidence and cooperation of others, including various levels of management
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and work well under pressure to meet quick deadlines
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Ability to exercise initiative, flexibility and demonstrate tact
  • Ability to perform literature reviews, legislation summaries, and legal research
  • Ability to perform public policy analysis and research


Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Contact Information

The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.

Hiring Unit Contact:
Kelly Imai
(916) 210-7177
Kelly.Imai@doj.ca.gov

Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.

EEO Contact:
EEO Officer
(916) 210-7580
EERROffice@doj.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Additional Application Filing Information

Please note, if using the United States Postal Service for delivery, there is no guarantee that your application will be date stamped and will arrive by the final filing date. If your application does not have a postmark or date stamp and arrives after the final filing date, your application will not be accepted. Therefore, to ensure timely delivery of your application, it is recommended that you use either electronic delivery, parcel service, or certified mail. Using one of these options will provide proof of delivery prior to the final filing date.

Assessment Information

Completion of an online multiple-choice test measuring your knowledge of research terminology, methods, and statistics is REQUIRED to proceed in the selection process for this position. This is separate from the exam available on calcareers.ca.gov. 

 

Following your application submission, you will receive an e-mail invitation to the test from Research.Services@doj.ca.gov sent to the e-mail address listed on your application (STD 678).  The e-mail will provide a test link, code, and instructions.  The test will be open for three days, during which you can start the test at any time.  Once the test is started, it must be completed within the allotted test time and before the close of the administrative window.  Your score on this test is valid for 12 months. You will not be required to take this test again for positions that require it with the Department of Justice Research Services if you have taken the test within the last 12 months.

 

If you do not receive your e-mail invitation within 7 business days of submitting your application, experience technical issues, have questions, or need to reschedule your test, please contact Research.Services@doj.ca.gov.

 

Online hiring tests require a personal computer (i.e., not a phone/tablet) and a stable internet connection, and should be completed in a good testing environment free of distractions. Tests may require candidates to visually identify information or type long passages. If you need a reasonable accommodation to take this test, you must contact Research Services at Research.Services@doj.ca.gov and request an accommodation by the next Monday at 10:00 AM after you submit your application.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

Application Methods:
Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
Drop-off
Print Job