Program Evaluation Specialist

Program Evaluation SpecialistLocation: Nashville, Tennessee - 37243 Contract: 12+ months from the projected start Position Description: The Program Evaluation Lead is responsible for working with the management team to develop and implement evaluation and data collection strategies; managing evaluation and data collection operations; producing reports and performing data analysis to support evaluation; and ensuring that data collection and entry procedures follow agreed-upon protocols. The Program Evaluation Lead also trains and supports team members on program evaluation processes, metrics, and best practices; ensures that SSI programs are incorporating program evaluation processes and practices within their routine activities. The Program Evaluation Lead is responsible for working with SSI and CEDEP programs to incorporate evaluation findings into quality improvement activities and plans, and monitoring the implementation of those plans.Essential Job Tasks: Data and Evaluation Coordination ActivitiesWork with management team to develop and implement evaluation and quality improvement strategies, tools, and data collection plans to track outcomes.Work with management team to incorporate data/evaluation and quality improvement into program planning, reporting, and staff meetings.Stay abreast of, and evaluate, current trends and practices in public health research and evaluation.Make recommendations to ensure effective and efficient data collection, dissemination, and reporting.Produce periodic program reports for program managers and senior management for program management/evaluation purposes; assist with data interpretation.Ensure integrity of data reporting on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis by performing data integrity checks and working with program staff on data entry problems.Troubleshoot and ensure that data is being collected and entered in accordance with relevant protocols and evaluation plans.Maintain complete and adequate files, records and documentation.Maintain and update database and data collection procedure manuals.Leadership ActivitiesCoordinate data collection and entry responsibilities among relevant staff.Coordinate evaluation tool implementation, collection, and reporting.Leads program evaluation and quality improvement training and orientation of new program staff.Works with internal and external stakeholders to develop a culture of quality improvement. Internal and external stakeholders include regulatory entities and academic partners who interface with SSI and CEDEP on specific projects.Minimum QualificationsMaster’s degree or equivalent work experience in public health, community development, or a related field of study.At least three years of experience developing and implementing evaluation strategies including surveys, focus groups, stakeholder interviews.At least three years of experience analysing data and creating reports using available data.Desired Skills, Knowledge, and AbilitiesDemonstrated experience in complex data collection, entry and analysis, including comparative analysis using publicly available data sources.Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills and attention to detail required.Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other data entry platforms including online systems. Ability to work under strict deadlines and time constraints, and to establish and manage competing priorities.Demonstrated ability to lead with no formal authority; ability to gain support and cooperation of staff for data entry and evaluation purposes.Ability to handle confidential information in accordance with policies and procedures.Ability to work with minimal supervision, both independently and as an effective member of an inter-programmatic team.Ability to work with people with varying degrees of computer knowledge.Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.Excellent communication skills in both oral and written communications.Ability to handle deadlines, details and complexity.Well organized.Good analytical and troubleshooting skills.