Research and Evaluation Manager

Job Overview

The Research and Evaluation Manager (REM) is a member of the Research and Evaluation (R&E) department who leads and collaborates effectively with internal and external partners to develop knowledge and evidence aligned with [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s strategic plan, mission and vision for the field of Parks and Recreation.

The REM produces meaningful and actionable research and evaluation insights to fulfill [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s vision, mission and strategic plan to support park and recreation professionals and their agencies, and other [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] staff, all working to promote health and well-being, environmental resilience, and access to the positive benefits of parks and recreation for all people in their communities. The REM works closely with the Senior Research and Evaluation Managers and Director of Research and Evaluation to develop and maintain effective project management plans, collect data, and communicate findings in clear, compelling ways. REMs are expected to cross-train in and contribute to a variety of efforts, including but not limited to measuring short- and long-term results of [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] grant programs; developing tools and guidance to support research and evaluation data collection efforts; collaborating in the administration of large-scale research efforts; and developing high-quality reports. A competitive candidate is self-directed, organized, detail-oriented and thrives working in a fast-paced environment with a highly collaborative team that is responsive to changing organizational needs and priorities.

Requirements

• Leads a portfolio of assigned projects that include data collection, analysis and reporting for funded external program evaluations, internal evaluations (e.g., [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s strategic plan measurement and other initiatives), and research projects with many mixed samples and methods.
• Develops and monitors full research and/or evaluation plans, creating full evaluation and/or research frameworks.
• Effectively communicates research and evaluation workplans, updates, and findings to colleagues and diverse external audiences through reports, magazine articles, infographics, dashboards, academic journals, blog posts, conference presentations, etc.
• Collaborates with department leadership and cross-functional business partners to support business development and revenue goals.
• Works with all R&E department staff members and internal partners to foster measurement culture and evidence-based decision-making at [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal].
• Keeps abreast of ethical human-subjects research and equitable evaluation standards.
• Serves as an ambassador for [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] and the R&E department at external conferences and meetings.
• Undertakes special projects and assignments as needed.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in social sciences research required; advanced degree or equivalent in parks and recreation, education, economics, public policy or administration preferred.
• Strong demonstrated knowledge in mixed-methods research methods.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience facilitating meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Suite required. Experience with online survey software (Qualtrics, Alchemer); data analysis software (SPSS, R, Dedoose), GIS (ESRI) and data visualization tools (Tableau, PowerBI) preferred.
• Strong project and time management skills.
• Ability to develop productive relationships and collaborate effectively.
• Knowledge of and passion for parks and recreation and [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s mission.
• Willingness to travel up to 20 days per year.