Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for a Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist to support a multi-disciplinary team providing data analysis, business intelligence, operations research, and decision support across the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission space. As a Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist, you will independently design and conduct evaluations supporting DHS S&T's portfolio of research, technology development, and operational capability programs. This role advances the Directorate's evidence-building requirements, supports annual evaluation plans, and collaborates with program managers to ensure that investments generate measurable outcomes for DHS mission components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead evaluation design for select S&T programs in alignment with the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (Evidence Act) and DHS Evaluation Policy 102-06. • Develop evaluation questions, methodologies, data collection instruments, and analysis plans. • Conduct mixed-methods analyses (statistical analysis, qualitative coding, case studies, cost-effectiveness assessments). • Develop performance metrics tailored to RDT&E programs and technology transition pathways. • Produce high-quality evaluation reports, briefings, dashboards, and data visualizations for leadership. • Work with program managers to identify evidence gaps and shape learning agendas. • Provide recommendations that inform investment decisions, project prioritization, and program improvement. • Manage contractor support and coordinate with research partners, laboratories, and DHS operational components. • Ensure ethical, privacy, and security compliance related to DHS-sensitive data and operational information.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience designing and conducting program or policy evaluations. • Misty be a US Citizen. • Able to obtain and maintain DHS Suitability. • Bachelors degree with 5-7 years of experience. • Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with evaluation software or tools. • Ability to translate complex findings into actionable recommendations. • Experience with stakeholder engagement in a technical or operational environment. • Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams. • Flexibility to know when other methods may be appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters degree or PhD with 3-5 years of experience. • Knowledge of DHS S&T mission areas, federal RDT&E lifecycles, and technology transition metrics. • Experience developing evaluation plans required under the Evidence Act (annual evaluation plans, capacity assessments, program reviews).