Junior Program Evaluation Specialist

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc.

(ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for a Junior 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 Junior Program Evaluation Specialist, you will support evidence-building, program assessment, and data-driven decision-making for DHS Science & Technology (S&T) research and innovation portfolios and other DHS components.

This position assists senior evaluators and program managers in developing logic models, collecting data, and conducting basic analyses that inform S&T’s applied research, technology transition, and operational capability development.

This role is ideal for early-career individuals passionate about solving real operational problems.

Key Responsibilities:


*  Assist in developing evaluation plans aligned with the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (Evidence Act), DHS evaluation policies, and S&T strategic priorities.


*  Support creation of logic models, theories of change, and performance metrics for RDT&E programs.


*  Conduct foundational data collection and validation activities (interviews, surveys, literature reviews, document analysis, data analysis).


*  Perform entry-level qualitative and quantitative analyses under supervision.


*  Prepare draft summaries, visualizations, and findings for internal review.


*  Help track evaluation tasks, timelines, and documentation across multiple projects.


*  Ensure compliance with DHS data governance, privacy, and information security standards.


*  Participate in learning agenda activities and assist with compiling evidence inventories.

Required Qualifications:


*  Foundational knowledge of program evaluation, social science research, or performance measurement.


*  Must be a US citizen.


* Able to obtain and maintain DHS Suitability. 


*  Bachelors degree with 2-4 years of experience OR masters degree with 0-2 years of experience.


*  Ability to collect and organize data reliably.


*  Interest in homeland security, science and technology, or applied research environments.


*  Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.


*  Flexibility to know when other methods may be appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications:


*  Experience (internships, coursework, or projects) in evaluation, data analysis, or program assessment.


*  Familiarity with Evidence Act principles, DHS mission areas, or federal RDT&E processes.

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 Washington, D.C.

 

Compensation & Benefits: Pay Ranges: From $87,000.00 - $116,000.00 per year based on years of experience, degree a...