Health Equity Research Specialist at Minnesota Department of Health

Job Details

Working Title: Health Equity Research Specialist
Job Class: Research Analysis Specialist
Agency: Health Department

• Job ID: 80329
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• 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 09/27/2024.
• Date Posted: 09/20/2024
• Closing Date: 10/03/2024
• Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
• Division/Unit: Health Equity Bureau (HEB) / Health Equity Performance and Research Staff
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 25% of the time
• Salary Range: $27.84 - $40.82 / hourly; $58,129 - $85,232 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)
• FLSA Status: Non-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
  
  The Health Equity Research Specialist will lead the research, development and execution of technical health equity studies, focusing on new programs or areas with limited procedural precedent. This role is responsible for building methodologies and models for health equity programs using a range of tools, including computers, packaged software, mathematics, and analytical procedures.
  
  Additionally, the Health Equity Research Specialist will create and maintain databases for programs with statewide impact. This involves utilizing various data sources, editing procedures, and relevant technology to ensure accurate and accessible data management systems. The role also includes planning reporting activities and using professional contacts and resources to keep information up to date.
  
  The specialist will monitor conformity to timelines and quality standards, identify training needs, and provide guidance to support staff in managing workloads. The position will support section leadership by offering technical assistance and ensuring the integration and application of equity research. This work will focus on improving health outcomes for historically underserved communities, including BIPOC, American Indian, LGBTQ+, individuals with disabilities, refugees, immigrants, and rural populations.
  
  Key Responsibilities:
  
  • Research, develop and execute health equity studies for new programs.
  • Write and evaluate research reports, ensuring accurate data analysis and clear communication.
  • Design and approve surveys and questionnaires and other qualitative methods.
  • Create and maintain databases for large and small scale projects.
  • Monitor project timelines, quality standards, and identify training needs.
  • Provide technical assistance and support to improve community health equity outcomes.
    This position may have the option of teleworking based on the business needs and manager discretion. Commuting to the St. Paul office and other MDH office locations across the state may be required. Reimbursement for authorized business travel expenses is provided according to bargaining unit guidelines.
    
    Qualifications
    
    Minimum Qualifications
    
    • Two years of experience providing support in public health-related data management and analysis.
    • Proficient experience in statistical software and data analysis tools such as SAS, SPSS, R, STATA, or Python.
    • Experience with database management systems and data visualization tools (e.g., SQL, Excel, Tableau).
    • Knowledge of health data standards, privacy regulations (such as HIPAA), and health information systems.
    • Ability to conduct complex data analyses and interpret results to inform population health-related research or policy decisions.
      A related master's degree may substitute for eighteen (18) months of experience; bachelor's degree may substitute for twelve (12) months of experience; and associate's degree may substitute for six (6) months of experience.
      
      Qualifications to be further assessed during the interview process:
      
      • Ability to research scientific literature to apply appropriate statistical methods for analysis and report writing for publication.
      • Ability to determine the appropriate analysis methods, identify problems, and develop and implement solutions to complex problems
      • Ability to work with and make presentations with diverse communities
      • Analyzing public health data through a health equity lens
      • Ability to conceive, organize and carry out research projects independently.
        Preferred Qualifications
        
        • Knowledge of health equity and key related concepts including health disparities, health inequity, and structural inequities, including structural racism.
        • Ability to apply a culturally competent perspective and approach to evaluation and research practice.
        • Knowledge of public health issues, Minnesota's public health system, roles and functions of local government, and the Local Public Health Act
        • Proficient in qualitative research software. Software skills: GIS, SmartSheets, SharePoint.
          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 http://www.mn.gov/careers .
          
          Contact
          
          If you have questions about this position, contact Katie Crowley at katie.crowley@state.mn.us or 651-201-5984 .
          
          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 Katie Crowley at katie.crowley@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.
          
          Diverse Workforce
          
          We are committed to continually developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our state and the populations we serve. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve the people of Minnesota.
          
          A recent engagement survey of State of Minnesota employees found:
          
          • 95% of employees understand how their work helps achieve their agency's mission
          • 91% of employees feel trusted to do their jobs
          • 88% of employees feel equipped to look at situations from other cultural perspectives when doing their job
          • 87% of employees report flexibility in their work schedule
          
          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.