Junior Research Scientist - Research Scientist 1

Working Title: Junior Research ScientistJob Class: Research Scientist 1Agency: Minnesota Management & BudgetJob ID: 94112Location: St. PaulTelework Eligible: YesFull/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: UnlimitedWho May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekersDate Posted: 05/08/2026Closing Date: 05/21/2026Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Management & BudgetDivision/Unit: Budget and Results Division / Impact Evaluation UnitWork Shift/Work Hours: Day ShiftDays of Work: Monday - FridayTravel Required: NoSalary Range: $26.43 - $38.55 / hourly; $55,185 - $80,492 / annuallyClassified Status: ClassifiedBargaining Unit/Union: MAPE (Minnesota Association of Professional Employees)FLSA Status: NonexemptDesignated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: YesThe 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.The Results Management team at Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) conducts analysis and research that helps state and local partners make informed policy decisions to improve outcomes for people in Minnesota. Through a variety of approaches and methods, we conduct analysis that sparks insights and coordination among government agencies. We use a data-informed process to focus enterprise-wide efforts on results, foster collaboration, and ignite action to improve outcomes for people in Minnesota.The Impact Evaluation Unit, as part of the Results Management team, is seeking a Junior Research Scientist to help conduct quantitative analysis and evaluations of state-funded programs to understand the efficacy of these programs for Minnesotans. This individual will work with a diverse research team on a variety of projects aimed at helping state agencies better understand the programs they support and implement.Job duties for this position include:Conducting data analysis and evaluation tasks in support of research projects, including cleaning and preparing datasets, running queries, and performing quantitative analysesPreparing data for, and creating, visualizations that clearly and accurately represent analysis results for a variety of audiencesConducting reviews of the current literature to help inform research studies using a variety of methods and analytical toolsActively work on complex coding and causal identification methods under the guidance of senior staffContributing to publication of findings in reports, briefs, and other products using statistical software, data visualization software, web content management software, and other toolsContributing to research partnerships with other organizations, state agencies, or local governments by formulating project goals and data needs, facilitating access to data, and providing expertise on analytic techniques and resultsCommunicating findings in a manner that facilitates trust, understanding, and useThis job offers the opportunity to work on diverse and engaging research projects that provide information that directly impacts the lives of Minnesotans across the state. MMB also offers job-related opportunities for continuing education or career development, and this position offers the opportunity for job progression as a research scientist for the state of Minnesota.Telework options for this position are dependent on where the employee lives. With approval, employees that live within 50 miles from the primary work location may telework up to 50%. Employees that live 50 miles or more from the primary location and live in Minnesota may telework more than 50% with approval.Minimum QualificationsTo facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Candidates must clearly demonstrate all the following qualifications on their resume. Resume tips are available here.Two (2) years of experience performing quantitative research and/or data analysis in a scientific, academic, or applied research settingExperience must include:Knowledge of basic research methods, survey design principles, and data collection techniquesAbility to analyze data using descriptive statistics and identify and clearly communicate trends or patternsTechnical skills to use analytical software, such as R, Python, SQL, or comparable programming languages sufficient to support data preparation and analysis and maintain and manipulate dataWriting and communication skills sufficient to prepare reports and describe complex quantitative information to a variety of audiencesInterpersonal and collaboration skills sufficient to work as part of a team to execute research projects and make informed recommendationsDemonstrated respect for diversity and a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment.A bachelor’s degree in social science, data science, or statistics may substitute for one (1) year of experience and a master’s degree in a similar field may substitute for eighteen months of experience.Preferred QualificationsMMB values diverse perspectives and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, even if they do not meet 100% of the preferred qualifications. Your unique skills and background might be just what we need!Experience querying and manipulating data in relational databases with SQLDemonstrated completion of data analysis using statistical techniquesDemonstrated experience writing code for data analysis and data visualization in R, Python, or related programming languagesFamiliarity with Minnesota state government processes and programsProfessional certificate or degree in computer science, data science, economics, statistics, or social sciences A master’s degree in economics, statistics, social science, or data scienceExperience conducting scientific studies of public programs or program effectivenessAdditional RequirementsIt is the policy of Minnesota Management and Budget that a successful candidate must pass all required checks prior to employment which may consist of the below checks:SEMA4 records check (applies to current and past state employees only)Criminal history checkReference checkSocial Security and address verificationEducation verificationConflict of interest reviewOther legally or internal policy required checksA criminal history does not automatically disqualify candidates, and each case will be reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and in alignment with fair and equitable hiring practices.Minnesota Management & Budget does not participate in E-Verify. Minnesota Management & Budget will not sponsor applicant work visas, including F-1 STEM OPT extensions. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.How To ApplySelect “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.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 Jake Pleschourt at jake.pleschourt@state.mn.us.MMB may choose to non-competitively interview certain disabled veterans (CDVs). To receive consideration as a CDV under M.S. 43A.111, you must:Meet service requirements and have a verified service-connected disability rating of at least 30%Provide qualifying documentation verifying the disabilityMeet all minimum qualifications identified in this postingSubmit all documentation by the closing date to Jake Pleschourt at jake.pleschourt@state.mn.us. ContactIf you have questions about this position, contact Jake Pleschourt at jake.pleschourt@state.mn.us or 651-201-2567.Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?A sense of purpose in their workConnection with their coworkers and communitiesOpportunities for personal and professional growthBenefitsAs 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 plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension 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 deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-beingSupport to help you reach your career goals:Training, classes, and professional developmentTuition reimbursementFederal 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 performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder carePrograms, 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 EMPLOYERSMinnesota 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 DisabilitiesMinnesota 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.