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.


*  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).

Working Conditions:


*  Work will be remote with occasional travel to client site and potential evaluation sites.

Client offices are at DHS’ St.

Elizabeth campus in Washin...