Research Assistant

Position Summary:

In general, the Research Assistant will serve as a member of the Research and Evaluation team for all activities affiliated with the implementation of the Research and Evaluation plan of WestCare. Must have familiarity with various cultural groups, of various socio-economic groups, and knowledge of adolescent developmental characteristics.

Essential Job Functions:

• Serve as a member of the Research and Evaluation Team;
• Collect baseline, discharge, and follow-up data on clients;
• Administer and Score assessment instruments;
• Enter client data in the statistical database;
• Enter data in the GPRA database;
• Monitor quantitative and qualitative data collection processes;
• Coordinate the compilation and management o data;
• Maintain a tracking and follow-up log for all clients;
• Engage and build rapport with all clients to assist with tracking and follow-up;
• Conduct chart audits for evaluation purposes;
• Administer Client Perception Surveys;
• Conduct client and/or staff Focus Groups;
• Maintain a Research and Evaluation file for each client;
• Conduct basic statistical analyses;
• Produce reports or assist in the development of reports as required by the National Director of Research and evaluation;
• Produce reports for the Program Director and/or Regional Vice President;
• Provide feedback to the Program Director and/or Regional Vice President regarding attainment of goals and objectives as well as data collection;
• Assist Program Director or Regional Vice President with Performance Improvement activities;
• Conduct literature searches via the Internet and World Wide Web;
• Embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation; and
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree (research related) required

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• 1-year equivalent experience in evaluation and/or research.
• Bilingual/bicultural (English/Spanish) preferred
• Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts such as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis or variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret and extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Bilingual/bicultural (English/Spanish) preferred
• Flexible schedule to include weekends or evenings depending on program need
• Excellent communication skills;
• Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion;
• Ability to work well in a team environment;
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality;
• Professional appearance and demeanor;
• Must be culturally/linguistically sensitive to populations served;
• Valid driver's license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare's vehicle insurance is required.
• Ability to pass and obtain a successful criminal background check
• As mandated by the State of California Order this position will require that the employee be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 effective 9/30/21. Employees that have requested a Medical or Religious Exemption, which has been approved by Human Resources will be required to test for the virus weekly.
• During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.
• And CPR Certification, First Aid Certification, and an annual Tuberculosis test.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting;
• Some travel is required and some outdoor activities may be required.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Occasional lifting of more than 10 pounds;
• Sitting, standing, walking, reaching are performed in the normal course of the position;
• The normal work routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues, BUT exposure or potential exposure may be required as a condition of employment. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be readily available to every employee engaged in Category II tasks.