Research Analyst - State of Idaho
Boise, ID Not Available
About the Job
Description
State of Idaho
Idaho Transportation Department
NOTICE: Applications will be accepted through 4:59 PM MST on the posting end date.
STATE OF IDAHO EMPLOYEES: If you are a current or temporary State of Idaho employee you MUST apply through Luma Opportunities. Applying through the State of Idaho’s external career website will cause duplicate profiles and will slow the processing of your application for a new position.
Do you want to make a difference and be part of an award-winning agency, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Idaho through transportation? At the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), every employee is critical to the mission, and we strive to foster an innovative, collaborative workplace where employees can grow and do their best work.
Idaho Transportation Department currently has an opportunity for a Research Analyst in the Central Labs located in Boise, Idaho. This position will perform laboratory testing as a testing technician in a construction materials laboratory. The focus will be on testing asphalt binder and may include the testing of hot mix asphalt (HMA), aggregate, soils, concrete, steel and geotextiles and other construction materials. Responsibilities also include analyzing, interpreting, and reporting the testing results, as well as, maintaining calibrations and performing proficiency testing
The successful candidate will work both independently and as a team in an accredited laboratory performing analytical tests. Ability to read and understand technical documents such as test methods, and the skills to conduct them properly is vital to be operational in this position. Due to the nature of construction, this candidate may be required to work long hours, odd-hours and weekends as occasionally needed.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
- Independently determining correct testing methods and then completing the testing on a variety of road construction materials;
- Reviewing and analyzing the testing data to determine the accuracy of the data and reports;
- Perform research on test methods, material types, and construction methods;
- Obtaining a maintaining all required testing and sampling certifications (WAQTC, ITD Individual Qualifications, etc.);
- Independently plan work tasks and data analyses;
- Follow WAQTC, AASHTO, ASTM, State, Federal, and other standards for sampling, testing and reporting guidelines;
- Ensure the lab adheres to AASHTO R18;
- Train new hires;
- Receive passing scores on proficiency sample testing and inspection from accrediting agencies such as AASHTO Resource and ASTM CCRL;
- Become familiar enough with other lab subjects and assist in the success of the entire lab;
- Log In samples according to Central Lab guidelines and track down any missing information and/or paperwork;
- Create final reports that show test results. This may require comparing the results to the specifications. Check other technician’s work;
- Use quality control techniques in sample security, data production, and reporting;
- Compile and analyze the testing results;
- Independently schedule, coordinate, and conduct laboratory maintenance;
- Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment;
- Ordering supplies and equipment;
- Field calls from Engineers, ITD employees and associated organizations to answer questions and provide information;
- Recommend acceptance/rejection of materials based on interpretation and statistical analysis of testing data. Much of these data will be determined from personal material testing, reporting and statistical analysis of the testing data;
- Reviewing data and calculations obtained from other technicians and analysts for accuracy. Any questionable or erroneous data are to be identified and reported;
- Report the data and findings in the most appropriate manner and will use standard review methods as well as experience, knowledge, and judgment. These recommendations, along with all laboratory work, will be cross checked by either the Principal Research Analyst, Principal Chemist, Subject Matter Expert, or Central Lab Manager. The impact of not identifying an error or poor materials could have major impacts on road quality, public safety, and funding with financial costs in the in millions of dollars;
- Research specifications and test procedures then use the correct data to test construction materials. ITD uses many specifications, many versions of specifications, and many standards; the specifications and standards are maintained in several books and several websites; sometimes the applicable standard is not clear. In all of these cases, the analyst will need to determine the best route forward;
- Determine and recommend acceptance/rejection of materials based on interpretation of testing data, and statistical analysis of testing results. Much of this data will be determined from personal materials testing, reporting, and statistical analysis of the testing data. This is difficult because the data results are not always as expected, the standard might not be clear, and there may be external forces biasing interpretation;
- Develop the correct research methodology to identify the trends then communicate the findings and help determine whether action must be taken and how to carry out those actions.
Minimum Qualifications
Good knowledge of:
- Research methods;
- Principles of statistics;
- Sampling theory and probability theory.
Experience:
- Writing analytical (research) reports or materials;
- Compiling and analyzing statistical data and drawing conclusions;
- Using statistical software or spreadsheet software to perform statistical analysis;
- Interpreting and communicating (orally and in writing) statistical material into information usable by a target audience.
To learn more about the department, please visit the ITD website. Make a difference in your community and in the lives of the citizens of Idaho! Contact an ITD Recruiter at: careers@itd.idaho.gov or call 208-334-8664. The Idaho Transportation Department does not sponsor work visas.
The State of Idaho offers a robust total compensation package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance; PERSI retirement benefits; paid sick, vacation, and parental leave; and 11 paid holidays per year. For additional information, please visit https://dhr.idaho.gov/information-for-state-employees/.
EEO/ADA/Veteran
The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.