Monitoring and Evaluation Research Analyst with Security Clearance

Overview The Office of Policy, Planning, and Resources for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs' Research and Evaluation Unit (R/PPR/REU) is needing a Monitoring and Evaluation Analyst (MRPT) to: 1) Design and conduct mixed-method evaluations of Public Diplomacy programs and initiatives; 2) Develop reliable ongoing monitoring systems for Public Diplomacy programs and initiatives; and, 3) Develop and deliver technical and professional support to field practitioners in the area of monitoring and evaluation. Responsibilities Design and conducted mixed-method program evaluations, including: experimental and quasi-experimental design; pre-post testing and difference-in-differences; qualitative research including observations, interviews, focus groups. Design rigorous sampling plans for both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Design survey questionnaires and interview protocols Provide oversight and quality assurance for research field work and data collection. Design and implement program/performance monitoring systems Conduct background research, literature reviews, and desk reviews. Design and conduct on-site and training in performance monitoring, evaluation, and research techniques for personnel. Develop M&E related guidance and support material for field teams. Design, issue, and monitor contracts for international research projects with third party research firms. Work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to integrate research findings into business processes and organizational routines Qualifications A Bachelor's Degree is required; a Master's Degree is preferred. Training should reflect training in qualitative or quantitative research methods. Experience collecting qualitative or quantitative data in foreign countries , including selecting, training or supervising local research teams; overseeing translation of instruments, protocols, and other research materials; and administering instruments in English (or other language, as necessary). Experience with performance monitoring for large-scale initiatives or for organizational-wide objectives, including developing performance indicators, establishing data collection business processes, creating data management practices, and creating monitoring reports. Experience with Stata, R, or comparable statistical analysis software. Familiarity with data visualization software such as Tableau or Gephi. Experience with traditional program evaluation methods, including but not limited to: focus group facilitation, content analysis, textual analysis, and network analysis, as well as familiarity with non-traditional techniques such as participatory evaluation, process mapping, and visual data analysis. Experience conducting research on one or more of the following topics: politics, media, strategic communication, democracy, development, security, education, nation branding, trust, public opinion, women's empowerment, or youth. Exceptional communication skills, with fluency in communicating user-centric design processes. Ability to approach problems analytically and holistically, considering the individual problem and the impact on the larger system. Ability to work on complex projects within a multidisciplinary team. Ability to work flexibly and efficiently in a rapidly changing environment, exercising a balance between research rigor and client needs. Demonstrated curiosity in continued learning and growth on the job. Openness to critique (including from other disciplines), curiosity to learn from a spectrum of perspectives, and experience or strong interest in collaborating closely with others. Strong ability to focus on and understand the needs of clients, as well as build and maintain strong working relationships. Experience working with a major development research organization or on programs funded by major international development funders (e.g., USAID, DFID, World Bank) is preferred.