Grow NJ Kids Project Coordinator - Evaluation

Grow NJ Kids Project Coordinator - Evaluation

Reporting to a Senior Research Associate in the Center for Research and Evaluation on Education and Human Services (CREEHS), the Grow NJ Kids Project Coordinator - Evaluation leads the planning and execution of day-to-day tasks of the evaluation of a statewide child care quality rating and improvement system. The Project Coordinator - Evaluation manages junior staff members and graduate students in conducting project work. This position is hybrid, with occasional travel to Montclair State University and around NJ for work-related activities, though that is subject to change.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with team members, clients, partners, and stakeholders to conceptualize and design project work.
• Translate overall evaluation design and milestones into trackable day-to-day operations, including detailed work plans and timelines.
• Maintain current knowledge of early childhood education and Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) developments.
• Apply to and ensure compliance with Montclair State University Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements.
• Develop data collection instruments, including but not limited to, surveys, focus group guides, interview protocols, and observation tools.
• Collect evaluation data through surveys, focus groups, interviews, observations, and program documentation review.
• Collaborate with the Grow NJ Kids Rating team to improve data management processes, tracking systems, and CRM development.
• Analyze and summarize qualitative and quantitative data.
• Prepare technical reports, findings deliverables, and presentations.
• Tailor communication of project findings in multiple formats for varied audiences.
• Build, strengthen, and sustain relationships with partners and stakeholders.
• Participate in and/or facilitate Advisory Committee meetings and activities.
• Facilitate various meetings including data validation activities, internal team meetings, and client meetings.
• Present evaluation findings at stakeholder meetings and professional conferences.
• Manage staff and tasks to ensure successful completion of planned activities.
• Supervise junior staff and graduate students on project work.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Graduate degree (i.e., Masters or above) in education, evaluation, or related social science field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience providing applied research, evaluation, and/or other related services to clients or partners, including: managing large-scale, multi-site projects or project components; collecting and using data to inform programming; communicating project findings to technical and non-technical audiences; mentoring or managing junior staff or team members.
• Proficiency in quantitative and/or qualitative data collection and analysis methods.
• Fluency in English with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred:

• Experience (clinical, practical, or research) in early care and education (ECE) settings.
• Familiarity with Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS) and/or Environmental Rating Scales (e.g., ECERS-3, ITERS-3, FCCERS-3).
• Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Strengths both as a team player and a self-starter.
• Strong organizational, task, and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a team and with diverse populations, including personnel in organizations and agencies inside and outside the university, as well as key stakeholders participating in the programs we support.
• Quick learner, flexible, and willing to learn new ideas, content areas, and skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain high-quality standards.
• Bilingual Spanish proficiency.

Procedure for Candidacy:

Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions.

Salary Range: $75,000.00-$85,000.00 Annually

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance.

Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.

Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions.

Contact Information:

For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.

Inclusion Statement:

Montclair State University values access and educational excellence. We are committed to an environment of diverse perspectives which ensures that graduates will be civically engaged, committed to democracy, and prepared to thrive as global citizens. We foster a community that promotes varied experiences and voices. We seek applicants who will contribute diverse ideas and perspectives and who value an environment that promotes educational growth and advancement for all.

EEO/AA Statement:

Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.