DATA AND EVALUATION ANAYST

Under the general supervision of the Director of Strategic Initiatives in the Office of the General Superintendent, the Data and Evaluation Analyst will support efforts to analyze data related to the organization’s mission, including but not limited to conservation, engagement, and sustainability efforts. The position will work with project managers to ensure that grant- and non-grant funded projects meet measurable goals, and support data-driven decision-making across the organization. The individual will play a key role in creating clear, impactful data visualizations that help communicate complex information to diverse stakeholders. This role focuses on evaluating program effectiveness, conducting surveys, analyzing data related to mission-related efforts, and assessing performance metrics to drive program improvements. This is a full-time, year-round position.

Typical Duties

Evaluation and Analysis:

Conduct comprehensive evaluations of programs and projects to assess their impact and success

Analyze data from various sources such as field data, surveys, environmental monitoring, and performance tracking to inform strategy and outcomes

Develop and implement evaluation frameworks and methodologies for both ongoing and completed projects and programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives

Analyze data to identify areas for process improvement across various programs and projects

Recommend and implement changes to improve data collection, survey methodologies, and overall program evaluation practices

Survey Design and Data Collection:

Design, implement, and manage surveys to collect valuable data on projects and programs, including conservation efforts and community engagement

Collaborate with staff, partners and other stakeholders to develop and manage collaborative data tracking processes, maintain effective survey methodologies and ensure data is representative and robust

Data Visualization

Create clear and engaging data visualizations (charts, graphs, dashboards) to present complex findings in a visually appealing and understandable manner and help to communicate the impact of projects and programs to a range of audiences

Performance Metrics and Data Management

Define and track performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) for projects and programs, ensuring alignment with both internal goals and external reporting requirements

Ensure proper organization and management of data from diverse sources, maintaining data integrity and consistency

Standardize data collection procedures and improve the efficiency of data management practices

Grant & Program Reporting:

Support the reporting process for both grant-funded and non-grant projects by providing data analysis and evaluation findings that demonstrate the impact of the District’s work

Assist in preparing data-driven narratives for grant reports, proposals, and external communications to funders and other stakeholders, highlighting measurable project outcomes

Ensure all evaluations and reporting align with funder and organizational requirements, including deadlines and performance metrics

Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Must possess an Associate’s Degree or higher from an accredited college or university AND at least 3 years of experience in data analysis and management, project/program evaluation, data visualization, or survey design and collection; OR a high school diploma or GED AND at least 5 years of experience in data analysis and management, project/program evaluation, data visualization, or survey design and collection.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Possess at least 1 season of work experience with the Forest Preserves of Cook County; OR at least 1 season of work experience as a Conservation Corp Crew member; OR at least 1 season of work experience on property of the Forest Preserves of Cook County with partners such as the Chicago Zoological Society, Chicago Botanic Garden, Greencorps Chicago; OR at least 1 season of work experience with other partners such as, Friends of the Forest Preserves or the Student Conservation Association.

REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS:

As an attachment to your online application, upload a PDF document containing a brief explanation of your interest in the position (250 words or less), two (2) writing samples demonstrating your competency in the typical duties outlined above, and two (2) examples of data visualizations with accompanying explanations. Submissions can be documents written for class assignments or written for professional purposes.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

Strong and independent commitment to accuracy and scientific integrity

Ability to comprehend, analyze, and interpret data in relation to project goals

Excellent analytical and quantitative skills

Proficiency in data analysis tools and survey platforms as well as Microsoft Office programs, ArcGIS, Google Earth, and project management programs

Experience designing and conducting surveys, including both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods

Demonstrated ability to create impactful and clear data visualizations to communicate complex findings to a range of stakeholders

Knowledge of evaluation methodologies, such as logic models, outcome-based evaluation, and results-based management

Experience working with a variety of stakeholders, from program managers to donors, to ensure data is effectively used for decision-making and reporting

Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present data findings in a clear and actionable way to technical and non-technical audiences

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with excellent attention to detail and time management skills

Support the mission of the organization and has enthusiasm for conservation and for connecting people to nature

Ability to maintain confidentiality of District information

The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work. They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee's normal line of work.

Veteran’s Preference

When applying for employment with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, preference is given in the application process to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for more than 180 consecutive days or during War Time. To take advantage of this preference, a Veteran must:

Meet the minimum qualifications for the position.

Identify him/herself as a Veteran on his/her employment application by answering “Yes” to the question “Are you a military veteran?”

Attach a copy of his/her DD 214, DD 215, or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation) at the time of application by uploading it as part of your application. If there are multiple DD 214s, DD 215s, or NGB 22s, the one with the most recent date should be submitted. Coast Guard members must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (before 911) or the Department of Homeland Security (after 911).

Provide original applicable discharge papers at time of interview.

Benefits Package

Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

Basic Term Life Insurance

Pension Plan and Deferred Compensation Program

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time

You May Qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link:

http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/

General District Employment Requirements

PROOF OF EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES WILL BE REQUIRED.

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person’s race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. We value our employees and the different talents, expertise, and viewpoints that each brings to the table. We believe a robust exchange of ideas results in better decision-making and we commit to providing a constructive, safe, and positive work atmosphere that promotes mutual respect and empowers individuals to thrive in their jobs.