To be considered for this position, you must apply at CalCareers.ca.gov. To apply, you must first create a CalCareers account. Once your account is created, you can search for job code 522594 to locate the job posting and apply. 

Link: CalCareers

Note: This position will no longer be available on CalCareers once the job closes on 7/14/2026. No applications will be accepted after the job closing date.

Job Description and Duties

Are you passionate about data-driven decision-making, data governance, and improving access to information? The State Water Resources Control Board’s Office of Information Management & Analysis (OIMA) is seeking a detail-oriented and innovative Research Data Specialist III (RDS III) to lead complex data integration, analytics, stewardship, and governance initiatives that support statewide water quality and water resource programs.

As an RDS III in the Data Integration & Analysis Unit (DIAU), you will develop data-driven solutions that improve accessibility, quality, and usability of information across the Water Boards. You will collaborate with program managers, engineers, scientists, information technology professionals, and leadership teams to support data integration, reporting, governance, and enterprise information management efforts. You will also help advance data stewardship practices, improve data discoverability, and support modernization of regulatory information systems.

This is an excellent opportunity for professionals who enjoy problem-solving, working with large and complex datasets, and leveraging technology to improve data accessibility, transparency, and decision-making across California's water programs.

The position is eligible for hybrid work schedule and in-office days based on operational needs of the position. The office is located at 1001 I Street, 19th Floor, Sacramento, right in the heart of downtown next to light rail stations and other public transportation.

Duties: 

The Research Data Specialist III (RDS III) performs advanced data systems support, integration, and applied analytics within the Data Integration & Analysis Unit (DIAU). The position supports Water Board data systems and enterprise data platforms by troubleshooting issues, improving workflows, and enabling program staff to effectively utilize data tools. The incumbent serves as a technical resource bridging data systems, analytics, and programmatic needs, contributing to improved data accessibility, integration, and operational efficiency across the State Water Board. The position is designed to provide flexible, cross-functional support across data systems, analytics, and integration efforts, adapting to evolving program and enterprise data needs.

Please let us know how you heard about this position by taking this brief survey: Recruitment Survey.

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

Working Conditions

Positions at the Water Boards may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position and might be expected to comply with Executive Order (EO) 22-25 after July 1, 2026.

In accordance with the Statewide Telework Policy and GC 14200, the successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment.  Proof of residency may be required.

Salary Information - CalHR salary rules allow appointment at the entrance rate (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, § 599.673) of a classification. For classes with alternate ranges, placement is based on education/experience. Employees appointed to the Attorney or Water Resource Control Engineer classification will receive Recruitment Higher Above Minimum (HAM) rate in accordance with the approved Civil Service Pay Scales.

In addition, note: Effective July 1, 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) which reduces an employee’s monthly salary in exchange for leave credits. Employees appointed to this classification will have their monthly salary reduced and will accrue hours of PLP 2025 on the first day of each pay period in accordance with the applicable bargaining contract. The salary range(s) included on this job posting do not reflect the reduction in pay.

Job type: Full-Time

$8,392.00 - $10,505.00 per Month

The Water Resources Control Board is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer.