Program Research Specialist 1

New York State Police; City of Albany (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

New York State Police seeks a research professional to synthesize findings and translate evidence into actionable insights for programs and operations. You will plan and conduct studies, evaluate technologies, and manage data from diverse sources to support agency priorities.

The role requires strong organizational and communication skills, experience with research methods, and a focus on crime data analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with coursework in applied qualitative or quantitative research methods.
• Experience in professional research or analyst environment.
• Strong organizational, written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in information analysis with emphasis in crime data (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Synthesize findings from research to support programs, policies and operations.
• Plan, design and conduct research and analytic studies.
• Identify and evaluate software, technologies, products and services for agency needs.
• Collect and manage data from multiple sources and assess reliability.
• Apply qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze trends and outcomes.
• Prepare reports, briefs and publications for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Coordinate research activities across internal and external partners.
• Respond to information requests related to research initiatives.
• Maintain detailed project records and documentation.

Skills

Research methods

Project management

Information analysis

Communication skills

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Duties Description

Under the general direction of the Senior Research Manager assigned to Planning, Research & Development, the incumbent will:

Description

Under the general direction of the Senior Research Manager assigned to Planning, Research & Development, the incumbent will:

DUTIES

• Synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed research, gray literature, and practice-based sources to translate evidence into actionable insights that support organizational programs, policies, and operational improvements.
• Plan, design, and conduct research and analytic studies supporting Section and Division priorities.
• Identifies, researches, and evaluates software, technologies, products, and services through market research, product demonstrations, technical documentation, and stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with agency needs and support acquisition and implementation.
• Collect, validate, and manage data from multiple sources; assess reliability and methodological integrity.
• Apply qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze trends, evaluate program effectiveness, and assess outcomes.
• Interpret and synthesize findings to inform decision-making and adjust project objectives or methods as needed.
• Prepare and deliver reports, statistical summaries, white papers, policy briefs, and professional publications appropriate for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and present briefings, visual products, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Provide evidence-based recommendations for program, policy, and operational improvements.
• Coordinate research activities, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder engagement across internal and external partners.
• Respond to internal, external, and public information requests related to research, projects, and initiatives.
• Maintain comprehensive, organized, and detailed project records, files, and documents to support transparency, reproducibility, and institutional knowledge.
• Analyze internal feedback and suggestion programs to identify issues and develop actionable solutions.
• Review project deliverables products for quality, clarity, feasibility, and alignment with objectives.
• Maintain operational knowledge of crime, personnel, and other administrative data systems and associated reporting protocols
• Serve as liaison to Division sections and external partners for assigned projects and initiatives.
• Support purchasing and procurement activities in compliance with New York State requirements.
• Support grant activities, including opportunity identification, proposal and budget development, compliance monitoring, reporting, documentation, award management, and coordination with internal and external partners.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Planning Section leadership.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree or higher in any field with coursework in applied qualitative or quantitative research methods or a bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience working in a professional research or analyst environment.

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications:

• Master's (M.A. or M.S.) or equivalent degree, or current enrollment in a master's program with an expected degree completion prior to or shortly after appointment.
• Recognized strong organizational skills, as well as superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in project management and/or research methods.
• Demonstrated experience in information analysis with particular emphasis in crime data.

Minimum qualifications must be met by the time of appointment.

Additional Comments

Resumes will be evaluated to determine whether candidates will proceed to the interview phase of the process.

The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any candidate unless the candidate provides documentation that they are authorized to accept work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is the policy of the New York State Police not to hire F1 or H1 visa holders for permanent employment or to sponsor non-immigrant aliens for temporary work authorization visas or for permanent residence.

The New York State Police values a diverse and inclusive workforce where the unique skills of all employees are valued in support of the mission of the Division. Qualified candidates are considered for employment without the regard to age, race, color, religion, gender identity and expression, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. The New York State Police is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that accept all applications from a wide range of candidates.

The New York State Police complies with federal and state laws and makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and/or sincerely held religious belief. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Division Personnel Office at [phone] or [e-mail].