Evaluation & Learning Systems Manager

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) creates and coordinates services that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents. Driven by the needs of residents, DHSP’s extensive services and programs touch almost every sector in the city: from newborns to senior citizens, from school-aged children to homeless families, from non-profit organizations to local employers.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a senior manager in the Department of Human Service Programs, the Evaluation and Learning Systems Manager will provide vision and leadership to the Department’s efforts to collect and analyze data across its many programs and services. The position will support a variety of existing data collection and evaluation efforts and oversee the creation of new systems where necessary to ensure that DHSP is meeting its programmatic and equity goals. The manager will oversee the DHSP out of school time enrollment lotteries. The manager will work cross-departmentally and will be knowledgeable about how different sectors use data to measure program impact. The manager will have an appreciation for the complexities of designing and delivering direct program services to residents.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Work with DHSP leaders to develop goals around data collection and evaluation, lead efforts to support a data-driven culture across DHSP, and support managers to use data for learning and quality improvement
• Develop or improve structures for collecting and reporting data, including through identifying and training point people and other staff in particular program and operational areas
• Lead the conceptualization and implementation of the Department’s enrollment lotteries for out-of-school-time programs in partnership with the Assistant Director for Children, Youth and Families and program leaders
• Partner with the DHSP Communications Manager and City Manager’s Strategy Team to use qualitative and quantitative data to effectively tell the DHSP story
• Represent DHSP data and evaluation efforts with the City’s Information Technology Department, Cambridge Public Schools, the Community Development Department, and the City Manager’s Strategy Office
• Support program managers in the technical implementation of various data systems to ensure smooth and efficient program operation; as necessary work with the city’s Information Technology Department to choose and implement new or upgraded data systems and support staff in the adoption and use of those systems
• Provide supervision and support to one full-time staff person and a team of staff working on the lotteries
• Actively support the Department’s Race & Equity Initiative and support DHSP divisions and leadership to meet the Department’s equity goals by effectively collecting and using data
• Development of survey tools to support multi-level engagement strategies of families, participants, and staff
• In partnership with Department leadership, develop ways to track the impact of DHSP programs on residents and families over time
• Support the tracking and reporting of departmental and divisional quarterly Budget Goals

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

At least five years demonstrated experience leading data management, program evaluation, or strategic planning efforts in human services, education or related field. Bachelors’ Degree in related field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding the use of data software systems within large organizations, including: identifying appropriate data systems, implementing new or upgraded systems as necessary, and supporting staff in the adoption and use of systems
• Demonstrated success evaluating programs or working with evaluators to determine program success
• Ability to conceptualize how to use data across systems and programs to meet department goals
• Experience with different data sources and formats
• Familiarity with workflow diagramming tools such as Lucid Charts, Visio, or other tools to visualize business processes and help implement new processes
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite applications such as PowerPoint and Excel, and in analysis/business intelligence tools such as Power BI, Tableau.
• Experience with quantitative data collection and analysis, including use of software such as SPSS, R, STRATA, or advanced Excel.
• Strong understanding of ETL concepts and best practices for merging systems and combining data sources.
• Strong ability to communicate orally and in writing with staff from a wide variety of backgrounds
• Collaborative work style with demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Supervisory experience, preferred
• Commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Cambridge's workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Standard office environment with fluorescent lighting, carpeted floors and air conditioning.
• This position may be eligible for hybrid work under the City’s Telework Policy depending on operational needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to access, input, and retrieve information from a computer. Answer telephones and maintain multiple files. May require minimal lifting of up to 10 pounds.