Job Description

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Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Data Management Specialist to support the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Head Start (OHS).

In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality, integrity, and accessibility of program data that enables federal staff to manage Head Start and Early Head Start grants effectively. You will play a critical role in maintaining data systems, supporting workflow tools, and ensuring reliable data is available to inform operational and strategic decision-making.

This position is ideal for professionals who thrive in data governance, data quality, and operational support environments supporting complex federal programs.

This position is contingent upon contract award. The listed salary range is a general estimate based on current information and may vary. Final compensation will be determined based on qualifications and experience; candidates should not expect offers at the top of the range unless exceptionally qualified.

Key Responsibilities

Data Management & Quality Assurance

Maintain and manage data across federal systems, databases, and workflow tools

Perform data validation, cleansing, and quality assurance to ensure accuracy and consistency

Support data governance processes, including documentation, standards, and controls

Monitor and resolve data discrepancies, inconsistencies, and reporting issues

System & Workflow Support

Support maintenance of workflow and task tracking systems (e.g., Smartsheet-based solutions)

Manage updates to data systems supporting grants management and program oversight

Assist in integrating and aligning data across multiple systems to ensure consistency

Maintain records and documentation to support operational processes and audits

Data Analysis & Reporting Support

Collect, aggregate, and organize data from various sources for reporting and analysis

Support preparation of reports, dashboards, and data outputs for stakeholders

Assist with identifying data trends, anomalies, and performance insights

Contribute to development of standardized reports and recurring data products

Operational Support & Documentation

Maintain data-related documentation, including data dictionaries, processes, and SOPs

Support development of data assets such as tracking tools, lists, and reporting templates

Assist in preparing materials for meetings, briefings, and leadership requests

Ensure timely and accurate completion of data-related deliverables

Collaboration & Stakeholder Support

Work closely with Program Specialists, Data Analysts, and federal stakeholders

Respond to data-related inquiries and provide support for ongoing operations

Support coordination across teams to ensure data consistency and reliability

Required Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Information Management, Data Management, Library Science, Or a related field

Experience

Minimum 3+ years of experience in data management or related technical support roles

At least 3 years of relevant post-baccalaureate professional experience directly related to: Data quality assurance and validation practices

Data governance concepts and standards

Record management and documentation processes

Data quality assurance and validation

Data governance principles knowledge

Document management systems experience

Metadata management experience

Technical Skills & Knowledge

Primary:

Excel or Smartsheet (advanced in one of these), Data quality tools

Secondary:

SQL (basic)

Data cleaning, metadata management, documentation

Records management, data governance

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting federal programs or grants management environments

Familiarity with Head Start, Early Head Start, or similar human services programs

Experience supporting workflow tracking systems or operational dashboards

Core Competencies

Data accuracy and attention to detail

Data governance and quality control

Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Collaboration across technical and program teams

Organization and documentation discipline

Clear communication and responsiveness

Work Environment

Onsite role at OHS Regional Office with potential telework flexibility

May involve coordination with multiple teams across regions

Opportunity to support national-level data operations and program delivery

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.