Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist

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• Posted on October 29, 2026

Showing 1 location

• Hybrid
• Scientific/Analytical
• Full-Time
• Requisition #: JOURN
  010206

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for a Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist to support a multi-disciplinary team providing data analysis, business intelligence, operations research, and decision support across the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission space. As a Journeyman Program Evaluation Specialist, you will independently design and conduct evaluations supporting DHS S&T’s portfolio of research, technology development, and operational capability programs.

This role advances the Directorate’s evidence-building requirements, supports annual evaluation plans, and collaborates with program managers to ensure that investments generate measurable outcomes for DHS mission components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead evaluation design for select S&T programs in alignment with the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policy making Act (Evidence Act) and DHS Evaluation Policy 102-06.
• Develop evaluation questions, methodologies, data collection instruments, and analysis plans.
• Conduct mixed-methods analyses (statistical analysis, qualitative coding, case studies, cost-effectiveness assessments).
• Develop performance metrics tailored to RDT&E programs and technology transition pathways.
• Produce high-quality evaluation reports, briefings, dashboards, and data visualizations for leadership.
• Work with program managers to identify evidence gaps and shape learning agendas.
• Provide recommendations that inform investment decisions, project prioritization, and program improvement.
• Manage contractor support and coordinate with research partners, laboratories, and DHS operational components.
• Ensure ethical, privacy, and security compliance related to DHS-sensitive data and operational information.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience designing and conducting program or policy evaluations.
• Misty be a US Citizen.
• Bachelors degree with 5-7 years of experience.
• Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with evaluation software or tools.
• Ability to translate complex findings into actionable recommendations.
• Experience with stakeholder engagement in a technical or operational environment.
• Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.
• Flexibility to know when other methods may be appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters degree or PhD with 3-5 years of experience.
• Knowledge of DHS S&T mission areas, federal RDT&E life cycles, and technology transition metrics.
• Experience developing evaluation plans required under the Evidence Act (annual evaluation plans, capacity assessments, program reviews).

Working Conditions:

• Work will be remote with occasional travel to client site and potential evaluation sites. Client offices are at DHS’ St. Elizabeth campus in Washington, D.C.

Compensation & Benefits:Pay Ranges:
From $ - $ per year based on years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that you may bring to the position. We mostly reserve the upper half of our compensation bands for internal growth. During all call with one of our recruiters or hiring managers, they can further clarify the salary range and total compensation. ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future.

Learn more about each of our benefits at

COMPANY INFORMATION:

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an…