Qualitative Research

Job Summary

Conducts program evaluation activities and reviews the same for Area Command units through use of HMIS data;; uses evidence- based knowledge and skills to determine strengths and weaknesses in HMIS data collection activities and monitoring of progress on program and services outcomes; works in conjunction with departmental staff to develop statistical methodology; facilitates program evaluation project planning and strategic data analysis, exploring program and services effectiveness; prepares required funder reports and provides recommendations to improve program effectiveness; recommends program modifications, revisions and terminations based on analysis of outputs and outcome analysis, insuring effectiveness of Area Command programs and services; receives and compiles monthly statistics from all HMIS related programs.

Essential Functions:

This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of this position. The incumbent may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description.

Program Reporting, Analysis, and Evaluation Responsibilities (60 %)

Compiles and provides statistical reports monthly for contract compliance information to provide to immediate supervisor and departmental staff, Resource Development Staff, Funders, and Grants & Compliance Managers; produces statistical reports for the Area Command including reporting for the annual report, United Way presentations and other essential grant and contract reporting.

Compiles ad hoc reports as required/requested by immediate supervisor and various outside agencies and/or individuals.

Research external program services best practices and determines best way to measure internal program services qualitatively/quantitatively; compiles and reviews qualitative/quantitative measurements to evaluate program effectiveness.

Provides quarterly updates regarding community statistics, including demographic trends, poverty indices analysis, and the impact other human services organizations describe having on various identified community needs.

Provides administrative and compliance support to manage grants related to our programs.

Aid on collecting data and preparing statistical information for departmental staff.

Assists with the completion of internal audits of local units across Area Command, ensuring programs are operating in compliance with Salvation Army policies and procedures as it relates to program output and outcomes and that all programs are meeting expectations for effectiveness.

Reviews and inspects performance and outcomes plans, measurement instruments and other collateral to ensure program effectiveness; prepares recommendations focused on Area Command programming needing to be enhanced, restructured, or eliminated based on outcomes data.

Ensures that analysis of program and services evaluation data is reported to program and or services directors, managers, and supervisors; facilitates dissemination of same information and materials to program and services front line staff.

Administrative Responsibilities (10%)

Inputs data into the appropriate database to maintain records on all social services units. Documents and compiles information into, spreadsheets, records missing data, maintains communication with the field, etc. in an accurate, complete, and timely manner.

Answers the telephone in a courteous and tactful manner; assists employees and people from outside The Salvation Army by providing accurate and complete information and attempts to resolve complaints in a calm, courteous, and tactful manner; refers call appropriately.

Works collaboratively yet with minimal routine supervision to support grants and contracts staff in maximizing the capacity of the department; co-monitors work in progress and upon completion; informs departmental staff of any problems with the quality, consistency, or production of work

Training and Development Responsibilities (15%)

Conducts needs assessments to determine training needs; designs, develops, and conducts training programs for the field on a quarterly (group sessions) and as-needed (individual sessions) basis; evaluates training programs and makes changes as needed.

Facilitates training regarding logic model development, creation of program and services outcomes, outcome data acquisition, and implementation of measurement instruments.

Liaison Responsibilities (15%)

Acts as liaison to the Area Command Officers, Executive Director of Adult and Family Services, Program Managers, and other department directors; builds and maintains relationship with each.

Acts as liaison to external agencies and funding partners; builds and maintains relationship with each. Collaborates with appropriate managers regarding program and services cost analysis initiatives.

Other Responsibilities:

Performs other duties as assigned.

Materials and Equipment:

Personal Computer General Office Equipment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of basic statistics (including research principles, methods, procedures, survey methodology and standards).

Knowledge of accepted data entry techniques, and accounting functions and tasks. Ability to analyze and interpret statistical data.

Ability to learn and become proficient in specific computer software packages.

Ability to generate financial and statistical reports from computer data and in compliance with guidelines and established procedures.

Ability to present a positive and professional image of The Salvation Army. Ability to perform word processing, build spreadsheets and perform data input. Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in social services, program evaluation, or related field,

and

Two years’ experience collecting, analyzing, and preparing reports related to outcome measures,

or

any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Certifications:

Valid State Drivers License

Physical Requirements:

Ability to meet attendance requirements.

Ability to read, write, and communicate the English language effectively.

Ability and willingness to conduct all duties in accordance with the ministry of the organization and its Christian principles; conducts all communications and job duties with the highest level of professionalism.

Duties are usually performed seated. Sitting may be relieved by brief or occasional periods of standing or walking.

Limited amount of physical effort required associated with walking, standing, lifting and carrying light objects (less than 25 lbs.) frequently.

Working Conditions:

Work is usually performed in a normal office environment where there are little or no physical discomforts associated with changes in weather or discomforts associated with noise, dust, dirt, and the like, but not limited to the office environment.

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.

When an application is selected for review, typically, only applicants who indicate the relevant education and experience requirements, as indicated in the job description for the position, may be considered for job openings. Please FULLY complete the application, answer questions completely, honestly and to the best of your ability. Please also upload a copy of your resume (when available). Those applicants requiring accommodation to the application and/or interview process should contact a representative of the Human Resources Department at the applicable location.

We appreciate your interest in employment opportunities with The Salvation Army