Research and Evaluation Manager

National Recreation & Park Association • Ashburn, VA

3d • Remote

About The Position

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 NRPA’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 NRPA’s vision, mission and strategic plan to support park and recreation professionals and their agencies, and other NRPA 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 NRPA 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

• 5-7 years of experience in social sciences research required
• At least two (2) of the five years in full life-cycle program evaluation experience preferred.
• Strong demonstrated knowledge and experience in mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) research methods and approaches.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to synthesize and present data and research findings clearly and concisely for diverse audiences.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Suite required.
• Strong project and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and changing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to develop productive relationships and effectively collaborate with internal and external partners.
• Knowledge of and passion for parks and recreation and NRPA’s mission and commitment to access for all.
• Willingness to travel up to 20 days per year outside of remote work location.
• Remote workers must visit NRPA headquarters periodically, including attendance at the NRPA annual conference.

Nice To Haves

• A degree, advanced degree, equivalent, or a combination of education and work experience in parks and recreation, education, economics, public policy or administration (or related fields) could be considered to meet this requirement.
• Experience in designing and leading complex research and/or evaluation projects preferred.
• Experience and enthusiasm for non-academic writing for trade or membership organizations a plus.
• Experience facilitating meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities.
• Experience and skills with online survey software (e.g. Qualtrics, Alchemer); data analysis software (e.g., SPSS – Custom Tables and Syntax a plus, R, Dedoose), GIS software (ESRI) and current data visualization principles and tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Leads a portfolio of assigned projects that include data collection, analysis and reporting for funded external program evaluations, internal evaluations (e.g., NRPA’s strategic plan measurement and other initiatives), and research projects with many mixed samples (e.g., membership, program participants, staff, public) and methods (e.g., surveys, focus groups, interviews, literature reviews/desktop research, observations, technical assistance and training).
• Develops and monitors full research and/or evaluation plans, creating full evaluation and/or research frameworks, that include identification of methodology, process and outcome measures, data collection methods and sources, and timelines.
• Works together with department colleagues and other internal partners to assess the progress and long-term impact of NRPA grant programs.
• Effectively communicates research and evaluation workplans, updates, and findings to colleagues and other teams and diverse (often non-technical) external audiences (members, donors, partners, the public) 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 multiple internal partners to foster and strengthen measurement culture and evidence-based decision-making at NRPA by ensuring that internal and external tools and resources are efficient, consistent and reflect NRPA’s approved language and branding; role modeling; formal and informal teaching; regularly reviewing and updating standard operating procedures and policies; reducing bias; and generally improving the value of R&E contributions to bolster NRPA’s reputation as the field’s premiere source of park and recreation knowledge and impact data.
• Keeps abreast of and champions ethical human-subjects research and equitable evaluation standards that respect and preserve the security and dignity of individuals and their data.
• Serves as an ambassador for NRPA and the R&E department at external conferences, meetings, site visits with local agencies, and at NRPA’s annual conference by presenting, networking, fostering relationships and supporting the conference team, as needed.
• Undertakes special projects and assignments as needed and directed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree