Under general direction of the Epidemiology Manager of the Cancer Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch (CESB), provides research support to the Epidemiology Team of the CESB. Conducts data linkages and analysis of data files for data collection, internal data quality purposes, research studies, and data submissions to the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries (NAACCR) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR). Creates cancer incidence and mortality files for use by the CESB as well as internal and external customers. Creates data files for research purposes, including establishing evaluation methods, procedures, and documentation to assure data file integrity. Writes and executes computer programs relating to cancer incidence, mortality, and population data in Texas. Responds to complex specialized requests for cancer incidence and mortality data. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

(45%) Compiles and maintains current cancer incidence and mortality data for use in CESB operations and for external data submissions to NAACCR and NPCR. Coordinates the creation of analytic data files, including establishing evaluation methods, procedures, and documentation to assure data file integrity. Develops appropriate and accessible documentation outlining cancer data quality issues for Epidemiology staff and customers. Recommends improvements and enhancements to the database system related to data quality monitoring and evaluation. Provides technical assistance within the Program regarding quality assurance statistical analysis and interpretation. Provides technical assistance to Epidemiology staff in coordination with the Epidemiology Manager regarding possible impact of data quality issues on epidemiology activities.

(25%) Responds to complex specialized requests for cancer data from CESB staff and CPRIT, private and public agencies, researchers, reporting institutions, and other customers. Using appropriate statistical software (e.g. SAS, SeerStat, SeerPrep, LinkPlus, Excel), determines the appropriate method and extracts and manipulates CESB data or Vital Statistics Unit (VSU) death data to conduct analysis or create analytic cancer incidence or mortality data files. Provides technical support in the electronic transfer and manipulation of these files. Documents procedures and data sets used in all data projects internally and by outside researchers and other customers.

(25%) Analyzes results for cancer-related research studies, reports, and epidemiologic investigations. Applies appropriate statistical procedures to identify discrepant data, to determine overall data reliability, validity, and relevance, and to analyze cancer incidence and mortality data. Leads the resolution of specific research or data-related problems. Develops materials for exhibits and other presentations of cancer registry data by performing special data runs and creating reports, graphs, charts, and tables. Prepares reports on phases of research, providing graphs, charts, and tables utilizing cancer incidence and mortality data.

(5%) Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of research and survey methods, principles, techniques, and philosophies.
Knowledge of statistical concepts, methods and their application to research analysis.
Knowledge of data linkage techniques.

Strong SAS programming skills.
Skill in the use of statistical analysis, database, and linkage software (e.g., SEER Stat, SEER Prep, LinkPlus, Excel).

Ability to plan, organize, and conduct assigned tasks for research projects.
Ability to identify discrepant data determine the impact on data quality and findings.
Ability to trouble shoot data files and data queries.
Ability to analyze and interpret complex statistical data.
Ability to analyze a problem and recommend an effective solution.
Ability to interpret and assist with publishing research findings.
Ability to communicate effectively in writing, speaking, and nonverbally.
Ability to explain highly technical information to others.
Ability to organize, track, work independently, and complete simultaneous difficult/complex tasks with varying deadlines.
Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships.
Ability to work effectively in a team setting.
Ability to exercise good judgment in evaluating situations and making recommendations.
Ability to learn and effectively apply new procedures and techniques.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
N/A

Initial Selection Criteria:
Criteria 1: Master’s degree or higher in Public Health, Epidemiology, or related field preferred.

Criteria 2: Experience using SAS or other statistical software

Criteria 3: Experience in analyzing epidemiologic data and/or conducting data linkages.

Additional Information:
A skills test will be required with the interview.

The Texas Cancer Registry offers optional telework to its team members and this position is eligible for telework.

In addition to rewarding, meaningful work, DSHS offers a variety of benefits, which can be found at https://ers.texas.gov/Benefits-at-a-Glance, and generous leave based on years of service. A list of State of Texas holidays is available at: http://www.hr.sao.texas.gov/Holidays.

Any offer of salary is dependent on applicant's relevant experience and contingent upon allocated funds set by the current budget. Offers cannot exceed the maximum posted salary.

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.


In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

MOS Code:
35F, 49A, 783X, ISS, 61AX, 8051, 0231

Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.