Extension Evaluation Specialist

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Position Overview
This role offers statewide leadership and specialized knowledge in evaluating the efficacy and effectiveness of Extension programs and initiatives through collaboration and consultation with MSU Extension staff and programmatic work teams to establish evaluation objectives, ensuring programs are evidence-based and responsive to community needs. Responsibilities include assisting with designing, implementing, and managing evaluation strategies (e.g., needs assessments, logic models) to measure program outcomes and ensure that Extension programs and initiatives are meeting their intended goals and objectives. Through consultation, fostering capacity development, and active involvement in understanding organizational learning outcomes and impact, you will assist in identifying appropriate data collection methodologies and in analyzing data from multiple methods (i.e., qualitative, and quantitative data) to assess program impact and identify areas for improvement. Your leadership will be crucial in bolstering MSU Extension's evaluation capacity as you train Extension staff in evaluation methodologies, data collection techniques, and provide technical assistance and guidance on evaluation related matters.
 
You will assist in the development and implementation of comprehensive evaluation plans and methodologies to gauge program impact in alignment with program goals, grant requirements, and reporting deadlines. Your analysis of evaluation findings will inform decision-making, identify best practices and areas for enhancement. Additionally, you will identify and monitor shared performance indicators, aligning with funding requirements, MSU Extension's strategic initiatives, and MSU's Strategic Plan. You will communicate the value of MSU Extension programs effectively through clear and actionable evaluation reports presented to MSU Extension leadership and other relevant individuals and groups.
 
Although negotiable, there will be space available for this position to work from a MSU Extension campus office located in East Lansing, Michigan. This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment, however, there is an expectation to work from a MSU Extension campus office. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individual’s position and office location drive the ability and amount of work-location flexibility.

Minimum Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)‌

• Master’s degree in evaluation, human sciences, agriculture, economics, behavioral and social sciences, public policy, or related field. 

 
Application deadline is June 3, 2024.
 
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations.
 
The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.