National Recreation and Park Association · 1 month ago
Research and Evaluation Manager
United States
Full-time, Contract
Remote
Senior Level
$70K/yr - $84K/yr
5+ years expThe National Recreation and Park Association is seeking a Research and Evaluation Manager to lead and collaborate with partners in developing evidence aligned with their strategic plan. The role involves producing actionable research insights to support park and recreation professionals and managing various research and evaluation projects.
Non ProfitAssociation
Responsibilities
Leads a portfolio of assigned projects that include data collection, analysis and reporting for funded external program evaluations, internal evaluations (e.g., NRPA’s strategic plan measurement and other initiatives), and research projects with many mixed samples (e.g., membership, program participants, staff, public) and methods (e.g., surveys, focus groups, interviews, literature reviews/desktop research, observations, technical assistance and training)
Develops and monitors full research and/or evaluation plans, creating full evaluation and/or research frameworks, that include identification of methodology, process and outcome measures, data collection methods and sources, and timelines. Works together with department colleagues and other internal partners to assess the progress and long-term impact of NRPA grant programs
Effectively communicates research and evaluation workplans, updates, and findings to colleagues and other teams and diverse (often non-technical) external audiences (members, donors, partners, the public) through reports, magazine articles, infographics, dashboards, academic journals, blog posts, conference presentations, etc
Collaborates with department leadership and cross-functional business partners to support business development and revenue goals
Works with all R&E department staff members and multiple internal partners to foster and strengthen measurement culture and evidence-based decision-making at NRPA by ensuring that internal and external tools and resources are efficient, consistent and reflect NRPA’s approved language and branding; role modeling; formal and informal teaching; regularly reviewing and updating standard operating procedures and policies; reducing bias; and generally improving the value of R&E contributions to bolster NRPA’s reputation as the field’s premiere source of park and recreation knowledge and impact data
Keeps abreast of and champions ethical human-subjects research and equitable evaluation standards that respect and preserve the security and dignity of individuals and their data
Serves as an ambassador for NRPA and the R&E department at external conferences, meetings, site visits with local agencies, and at NRPA’s annual conference by presenting, networking, fostering relationships and supporting the conference team, as needed
Undertakes special projects and assignments as needed and directed
Qualification
Required
5-7 years of experience in social sciences research required; a degree, advanced degree, equivalent, or a combination of education and work experience in parks and recreation, education, economics, public policy or administration (or related fields) could be considered to meet this requirement
Strong demonstrated knowledge and experience in mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) research methods and approaches
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to synthesize and present data and research findings clearly and concisely for diverse audiences
High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Suite required
Strong project and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and changing priorities
Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to develop productive relationships and effectively collaborate with internal and external partners
Knowledge of and passion for parks and recreation and NRPA's mission and commitment to access for all
Willingness to travel up to 20 days per year outside of remote work location
Preferred
At least two (2) of the five years in full life-cycle program evaluation experience preferred
Experience in designing and leading complex research and/or evaluation projects preferred
Experience and enthusiasm for non-academic writing for trade or membership organizations a plus
Experience facilitating meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities
Experience and skills with online survey software (e.g. Qualtrics, Alchemer); data analysis software (e.g., SPSS – Custom Tables and Syntax a plus, R, Dedoose), GIS software (ESRI) and current data visualization principles and tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI) preferred
Company
National Recreation and Park Association
NRPA is the leading non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of public parks, recreation and conservation.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$1.09MKey Investors
The Humana FoundationCITGO Petroleum Corporation
2026-06-30Grant· $0.89M
2025-11-18Grant· $0.1M
2024-09-18Grant· $0.1M
Leadership Team
Autumn Saxton-Ross, PhD
Chief Education & Equity Officer
Candice Carnage
Chief Operating and Financial Officer
Recent News
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