Senior Program Evaluation Specialist

ARA•Alexandria, VA

1d•$120,000 - $160,000•Remote

About The Position

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) seeks a Senior Program Evaluation Specialist to support a multidisciplinary team providing data analysis, business intelligence, operations research, and decision support across the Department of Homeland Security mission space. The role serves as a strategic advisor guiding DHS S&T’s evidence-building strategy, leading evaluations of high-impact research and technology programs, and advising leadership on performance, effectiveness, and mission value. It supports compliance with the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act and helps position the Directorate to make data-driven decisions about research investments. The position works remotely, with occasional travel to client and potential evaluation sites. Client offices are at DHS’ St. Elizabeth campus in Washington, D.C. The stated annual pay range is $120,000–$160,000, based on experience, degree, and relevant skills and knowledge.

Requirements

Extensive experience leading program or policy evaluations, ideally in science, technology, innovation, or national security domains.
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Able to obtain and maintain DHS Suitability.
Bachelor’s degree with 8–10 years of experience.
Mastery of evaluation methodologies and ability to tailor approaches to RDT&E environments.
Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and strategic assessment skills.
Demonstrated ability to guide executive decision-making using evidence and analysis.
Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.
Flexibility to know when other methods may be appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or PhD with 6–8 years of experience.
Deep understanding of DHS mission needs, S&T’s RDT&E processes, and federal evidence-building requirements.
Experience shaping organization-wide evaluation strategies or frameworks.
Graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in evaluation, social science, public policy, engineering management, or related fields.

Responsibilities

Lead complex, enterprise-level evaluations of S&T research portfolios, technology transition programs, and innovation initiatives.
Shape and refine S&T’s Evidence Act requirements, including learning agendas, evaluation plans, evidence inventories, and capacity assessments.
Provide strategic guidance on evaluation approaches for emerging technologies, prototypes, operational experimentation, and pilot programs.
Advise senior leadership on evidence-based decision-making, risks, and investment trade-offs.
Oversee development of evaluation frameworks, performance indicators, and long-term impact measures.
Lead cross-directorate collaboration with DHS components, FFRDCs, laboratories, and interagency partners.
Manage evaluation contractors and ensure methodological rigor and compliance with DHS scientific integrity standards.
Champion a culture of learning and continuous improvement across the Directorate.
Communicate findings to senior stakeholders, including SES-level briefings and congressional or OMB-facing materials, as appropriate.