Social Science Specialist

This position is part of the Defense Human Resources Activity. The incumbent will work under the general supervision of the Deputy Director, DPAC, and exercises considerable independence in planning, designing, and carrying out projects, studies, and other assignments. The incumbent is a recognized expert and is responsible for providing authoritative advice and consultation to senior leadership within and outside the organization.

• Leading or coordinating research projects, including developing project plans, monitoring milestones, and adapting to changing requirements.
• Applying social science research methods and principles to analyze workforce, organizational, or policy-related issues.
• Translating complex scientific or technical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for leadership or diverse audiences.
• Providing expert consultation or technical review on research methodology, survey design, or data analysis to ensure compliance with standards.
• Cultivating relationships and negotiating research requirements with internal and external stakeholders.

• Directing large-scale research programs or a portfolio of complex projects, which includes developing and executing research plans, allocating resources, and advising senior leadership on research priorities and implications of research findings.
• Applying advanced quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies to analyze and resolve novel or poorly defined workforce, organizational, or policy challenges, resulting in findings that shape strategic decisions.
• Translating highly complex and technical research findings into strategic, actionable recommendations to inform policy and guide decision-making for senior executive-level leaders.
• Providing authoritative consultation and technical oversight for major research programs, ensuring methodological rigor and compliance with federal regulations and statistical standards (e.g., Paperwork Reduction Act, OMB guidance).
• Developing and implementing strategies for stakeholder engagement, representing an organization's research capabilities, and negotiating with senior leaders to define and align on research requirements that significantly impact the mission objectives of stakeholders.

In addition to meeting qualifications, your application package must reflect the applicable experience to meet the Individual Occupational Requirements for the 0101 series.

• Degree in behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position OR
• Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with the knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field. OR
• Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.

NOTE:

Failure to provide transcripts will result in you being rated ineligible for this position.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.