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In Allegheny County, we appreciate people who think big, act boldly, and care about making a difference. You don’t have to be from here to feel at home, or to make your mark. With only 1.3 million people in the County, it’s small enough for motivated people to get things done. Allegheny County’s Department of Human Services (DHS) is a perfect place to get things done that directly affect people in need in a positive and lasting way.
Overview
The Data Specialist conducts quality and outcome analyses to monitor, analyze, and coordinate service provision across the Continuum of Care (CoC). The Data Specialist may also conduct research and analysis at the intersection of Homeless Services and other DHS programs including child welfare, aging, behavioral health and other community services. This position works closely with the Office of Analytics, Technology and Planning at DHS.
The Data Specialist reports to the Manager, Homeless Data and Outcomes in the Office of Community Services.
***Please Note: This is step 1 of 2. Interested applicants are required to also complete the county application CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Responsibilities
Monitors and analyzes data to support the daily operational data and reporting needs of the Co -funded programs such as providing formal and informal responses/reports to service provider agencies of Emergency Shelter, Rapid Rehousing, Bridge Housing, and Permanent Supportive Housing programs
Conceptualizes data
Shares analysis and insights through effective presentation of the data output with team and DHS stakeholders
Uses quantitative and qualitative statistical methods to analyze DHS data and advises others about using these methods. While the Data Specialist is not required to be an expert in all statistical tests and methods, this person is expected to understand their particular expertise in data analysis and seek other expert opinion whenever appropriate.
Directs and assists in the ongoing design, development and enhancement of DHS information systems (particularly the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)). As an end-user of these systems, the Data Specialist provides guidance to colleagues on the optimal business process and training requirements to ensure that the data is accurately captured and maintained within the system to meet the research and operational needs of DHS. This may also include working closely with colleagues to identify data-related problems and solve them.
Develops and supports quality improvement plans for Homeless Services providers
Specific to HMIS data and reporting
Assists in preparing and analyzing documents for reports. These may include: Annual Homeless Assessment Report, Annual Performance Report, Performance Sections of NOFA, Quarterly Performance Report, Quarterly Benchmark Report, Long Length of Stay Report and all other reports as needed.
Assists with interpreting reports for input to HUD E-Snaps and HDX computer system including: system-wide AHAR (HUD, HAP) and Annual Performance Reports (80+ Continuum of Care funded programs)
Responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and regular reviews of data from Allegheny County HMIS. Conducts Data quality checks will include monitoring for statistical trends, deficiencies, vacancies
Coordinates with HMIS Specialist, Service Desk and HMIS development team to identify system issues and ensure quality assurance for HMIS system users
Conducts group and one-on-one training sessions or conference calls for system users.6. Coordinate the HMIS participation of contracted and non-contracted providers of HMIS including PATH, ESG, VA, other. This will include baseline knowledge of Master Provider Enterprise Repository (MPER.)7. Analyze and maintain regular vacancy report and denial report to streamline coordinated entry process.
Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Strong analytical and written communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills ability to clearly communicate (written/verbal) with diverse people, and to work in teams
Excellent organizational skills
Attention to detail and quality
Professionally interacts with County and provider staff, consumers, and the general publi
Works at a high level of independence with minimal supervision
Functions with flexibility
Ability to take initiative
Proficient in using analytical tools and instruments (Excel, SPSS and related statistical packages) and presentation software (Microsoft PowerPoint and Word)
Embraces the DHS mission and guiding principles
Familiarity with the human services field and programmatic research considerations
Has available and consistent access to reliable transportation and be able to navigate in the community for work related assignments
Education/Experience requirements
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in one of the Social Service fields plus 2 years’ previous experience working with human services programs and/or quality improvement programs.
In accordance with the Allegheny County mandate, individuals being made conditional job offers with the county will have to be vaccinated from COVID-19 as a condition of employment, subject to applicable federal and state laws. The prospective employee will need to be fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before beginning work. Please note you will be required to provide proof of full vaccination. Fully vaccinated from COVID-19 is defined as:
- 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
- 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine
About DHS
DHS is the largest agency in Allegheny County government, serving over 200,000 people a year through services that include: Protecting children and youth from abuse and neglect and preventing future occurrences of maltreatment; improving child wellness though family support, home visiting, early intervention and in-home services; providing treatment for behavioral health issues such as substance use disorders and mental illness; managing the care of adults with intellectual disabilities; preventing unnecessary nursing home stays; and services that prevent homelessness and provide shelter and housing for families and individuals.
You can make a big impact here. We stand out as one of the best human services organizations in the country. But we need problem-solvers, innovators, and terrific leaders to make sure we are smart in how we use our funding so that we reach the people who most need our help to make lives better.
Everything Else
Classification Title: Data Specialist
Application Process: We encourage you to apply as soon as possible because this posting may close without advanced notice
Assessments/Testing: This position does not require testing
Pre-employment Screening: An offer of employment is contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by law and County policies, including the successful completion of a background check. Candidates must pass verifications required for the position. These may include employment and/or education verification, motor vehicle record check, drug test, and/or physical.
The existence of a conviction does not automatically disqualify an individual from employment except where federal or state law or regulations prohibit employment of an individual with certain convictions. For more information about the selection and employment screening process, email [email protected].
Allegheny County provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local laws.
Why DHS?
It is innovative. Most recently, the national attention and awards we’ve gotten are for how DHS integrates data and uses them to improve the safety and well-being of children through tools that support front-line staff in making decisions (using predictive analytics).
DHS is diverse, but we strive to be even more inclusive. Our director has made it her top priority that DHS is “the kind of place where a diverse group of talented people want to come, grow, and do their best work.” This includes equity in hiring and advancement, as well as in unleashing the creativity and ideas of staff at every level of DHS.
It has strong, assertive leaders. We do not hire yes-people.
