Senior Program Evaluation Lead (Hybrid)

ARA Brand; Alexandria (VA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is hiring a Senior Program Evaluation Specialist to lead complex, enterprise-level evaluations and guide DHS S&T’s evidence-building strategy. You will work with a multi-disciplinary team to assess research portfolios, technologies, and pilot programs.

Remote work with occasional travel to client sites is expected. The role emphasizes rigorous evaluation methods, stakeholder engagement, and clear communication to SES-level leadership and federal agencies.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading program or policy evaluations in science, tech, or national security.
• Must be a US citizen.
• Bachelor's degree with 8-10 years of experience.
• Mastery of evaluation methodologies for RDT&E environments.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management and strategic assessment.
• Ability to guide executive decision-making with evidence.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise-level evaluations of S&T portfolios and programs.
• Shape and refine Evidence Act requirements: learning agendas and evidence inventories.
• Provide strategic guidance on evaluation approaches for emerging technologies.
• Advise senior leadership on evidence-based decision-making and risks.
• Oversee development of evaluation frameworks and performance indicators.
• Lead cross-directorate collaboration with DHS components and partners.
• Manage evaluation contractors and ensure methodological rigor.
• Champion a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
• Communicate findings to senior stakeholders and in briefings.

Skills

Evaluation leadership

Stakeholder management

Strategic assessment

Evidence-based decisions

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree with 8–10 years

Masters or PhD preferred

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is hiring a Senior Program Evaluation Specialist to lead complex, enterprise-level evaluations and guide DHS S&T’s evidence-building strategy. You will work with a multi-disciplinary team to assess research portfolios, technologies, and pilot programs.

Remote work with occasional travel to client sites is expected. The role emphasizes rigorous evaluation methods, stakeholder engagement, and clear communication to SES-level leadership and federal agencies.