Research Coordinator III
Job Description:The Program Development and Evaluation Center (PDEC) seeks to hire a Research Coordinator III (Program Evaluator). This position will report directly to Dr. Sebastian Galindo, Associate Program Director of PDEC, and will collaborate closely with Associate Deans, Initiative Team Leadership (ITLs), and the AI/BI team to align evaluation activities with organizational goals and integrate advanced analytics into evaluation processes.
Collaborate with Leadership, Conduct Needs Assessments, and Develop Objectives :
Work closely with Associate Deans and their respective ITLs to align evaluation activities with organizational goals.
Coordinate with PDEC to inform faculty training initiatives.
Partner with the AI/BI team to integrate advanced analytics into evaluation processes.
Identify current situations, contexts, and challenges that Extension programs can address.
Collaborate with Priority Work Groups (PWGs) to develop Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) objectives.
Engage key stakeholders and target audiences through surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
Design, Develop, and Revise Evaluation Plans and Instruments:
Create detailed evaluation plans for Priority Areas, Initiatives, and Extension programs.
Define evaluation questions, identify data sources, and select appropriate research-based data collection and analysis methods.
Develop metrics that demonstrate return on investment under the direction of Drs. Sebastian Galindo and Christa Court (FRE).
Design and update tools to monitor performance indicators such as knowledge gain, behavior change, and long-term impacts.
Ensure instruments are accessible, culturally responsive, age-appropriate, IRB-compliant, and incorporate best practices.
Collaborate with the AI/BI team to enhance data collection tools using advanced technologies.
Data Collection, Standardization, Analysis, and Quality Assurance:
Establish standardized methods for collecting and analyzing data to measure statewide impact.
Align data collection efforts with evaluation strategies for Priority Areas, Initiatives, and Extension programs.
Coordinate with the AI/BI team to ensure data quality, integration, and consistency across platforms.
Collect reliable and valid data using surveys, interviews, observations, and other instruments.
Analyze data to inform leadership decision-making and package findings effectively.
Collaborate with Dr. Galindo and the AI/BI team on data quality issues and routine problem-solving.
Assess Program Impact, Communicate Findings, and Reporting :
Evaluate program effects on participants, including changes in knowledge, attitudes, skills, and behaviors.
Demonstrate return on investment in partnership with the Economic Impact Analysis Team related to objectives at various organizational levels.
Utilize insights from the AI/BI team to enhance impact assessments.
Coordinate the preparation of monthly, quarterly, annual, and ad hoc reports as requested by Associate Deans or the Dean of Extension.
Effectively present evaluation results to program staff, funders, and the community.
Monitor Program Implementation and Promote Continuous Improvement:
Provide oversight and input on evaluation plans and tools for priority programs.
Ensure program activities align with intended designs and that evaluation resources are properly allocated.
Work with the ITL and PWGs to inform program development based on evaluation findings.
Use evaluation findings to develop and implement program improvement plans.
Stay updated on evaluation trends and refine practices to align with the latest best practices.
Foster an outcomes-driven culture focused on learning and continuous enhancement.
SUPERVISION
Supervision Received: The Program Evaluator will report directly to Dr. Sebastian Galindo, Associate Program Director of PDEC.
Supervision Exercised: This position does not typically include supervisory responsibilities.
NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on project needs.
OTHER CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POSITION
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with evaluation methodologies.
POLICY MAKING AND/OR INTERPRETATION.
The Program Evaluator plays a key role in shaping and refining evaluation strategies that align with the priorities of UF/IFAS Extension. By collaborating with leadership and stakeholders, they ensure that evaluation frameworks are responsive to emerging needs and contribute to the continuous enhancement of Extension programs. Their work supports data-driven decision-making, optimizing program effectiveness and impact.
COMMUNICATION
Effective communication is essential for translating evaluation findings into actionable insights for faculty, leadership, and stakeholders. Program Evaluator prepares reports, presentations, and other materials to convey complex data in a clear and meaningful way. They also foster collaboration by engaging with initiative teams, ensuring alignment between program goals and evaluation strategies.
STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONFIDENTIAL DATA.
Maintain and review confidential and sensitive information and documents
CREATIVITY, STRATEGY AND LEADERSHIP.
Program Evaluator will leverage strategic thinking and innovative approaches to enhance evaluation methodologies and program assessment. They play a leadership role in developing solutions that integrate advanced analytics and modern data collection techniques to improve decision-making. Their ability to synthesize data and anticipate trends fosters continuous improvement and innovation across UF/IFAS Extension programs.
Expected Salary:
$60,500-$75,000, commensurate with experience.
Minimum Requirements:Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and three years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications:Demonstrated expertise in the evaluation of social sciences programs.
Special Instructions to Applicants:In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.
This is a time- limited position.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.
Health Assessment Required: No