Manager of Applied Research and Evaluation

Black Onyx Management, Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Black Onyx Management, Inc. is seeking a Manager of Applied Research and Evaluation to lead research projects, supervise data collection, and ensure deliverables meet client expectations.

You will collaborate with the VP of Applied Research and Evaluation to ensure seamless project execution and high-quality results across engagements. The ideal candidate brings a strong quantitative research background, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach to translating findings into actionable

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in the Social Sciences, Public Policy, Evaluation, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in applied research, program evaluation, or policy analysis.
• Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Proficiency with data collection methods and statistical analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead project management and execution for multiple applied research projects.
• Design and administer data collection instruments and perform analyses.
• Collaborate with the VP to meet client expectations and deliverables.
• Draft reports, executive summaries, and policy briefs for diverse audiences.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to professional development.

Skills

Project management

Data analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Research design

Education

Master’s degree in the Social Sciences, Public Policy, Evaluation, or a related field

Tools

SPSS

R

Stata

NVivo

Atlas.ti

Dedoose

Job description

The Manager of Applied Research and Evaluation is responsible for executing research and evaluation projects, managing data collection and analysis, and ensuring deliverables meet client expectations. This position is highly collaborative and requires a strong understanding of research and program evaluation methodologies, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement. While this role does not currently include supervisory or budgetary responsibilities, the Manager will work closely with the VP of Applied Research and Evaluation to ensure seamless execution of projects.

The ideal candidate for this role is an analytical, detail-oriented, and solutions-focused professional with a strong background in quantitative applied research and evaluation. They should be passionate about data-informed decision-making, equitable evaluation, and using research to inform policy and practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• 1. Project Management & Execution (40%)
  Develop and implement project work plans, timelines, and milestones, ensuring high-quality execution.
  Collaborate with the VP of Applied Research and Evaluation to design and implement research and evaluation studies tailored to client needs.
  Coordinate day-to-day operations for multiple projects, ensuring deliverables are on track and aligned with organizational priorities.
  Maintain quality control over research processes, identifying and resolving any project-related challenges.
• 2. Data Collection & Analysis (25%)
  Design and administer surveys, interviews, and focus groups to collect qualitative and quantitative data.
  Lead quantitative data analysis using SPSS, R, or Stata, and qualitative analysis using NVivo, Atlas.ti, or Dedoose.
  Conduct data cleaning, coding, and synthesis to identify patterns, trends, and actionable insights.
  Ensure research findings are presented in a clear, accessible, and meaningful way for clients and stakeholders.
• 3. Business Development & Client Cultivation (15%)
  Identify and pursue new business opportunities in collaboration with the VP of Applied Research and Evaluation
  Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective clients, including nonprofits, government agencies, philanthropic organizations, and community-based groups.
  Support the development of proposals, scopes of work, and concept notes for prospective clients and funders.
  Represent the organization at events, webinars, and networking opportunities to raise visibility and build partnerships.
  Contribute to thought leadership efforts by participating in panels, publishing insights, or sharing best practices from the field.
• 4. Reporting & Client Communication (15%)
  Draft research reports, executive summaries, data visualizations, and policy briefs to communicate findings.
  Assist in the development of presentations for client meetings, webinars, and community engagement sessions.
  Ensure reports and presentations align with organizational values of equity, clarity, and accessibility.
• 5. Professional Development & Learning (5%)
  Stay up to date on best practices in applied research, evaluation frameworks, and new analytical tools.
  Attend professional development workshops, conferences, and training opportunities to enhance skills.
  Engage in cross-team collaboration and knowledge sharing to improve the organization's research capacity.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in the Social Sciences, Public Policy, Evaluation, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in applied research, program evaluation, or policy analysis.
• Experience designing and implementing qualitative and quantitative research and program evaluation methodologies.
• Proficiency in data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, focus groups) and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong data analysis skills, with proficiency in software such as SPSS, R, Stata (quantitative), and NVivo, Atlas.ti, or Dedoose (qualitative).
• Experience writing research reports, presentations, and technical briefs for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience engaging diverse stakeholders, including nonprofits, government agencies, community organizations, and philanthropic partners.

Reports To:

Vice President of Applied Research and Evaluation