Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire Career Overview

As a Senior Policy Evaluator, you play a vital role in shaping effective policies that address societal needs and challenges. Your focus centers on the systematic assessment of government programs and initiatives, ensuring that they meet their intended goals and provide value to the community.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of various public policies through qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  • Collaborating with policymakers to design evaluations that inform decision-making processes and optimize resource allocation.
  • Analyzing data to assess outcomes and impacts, providing actionable insights to improve existing policies or develop new ones.
  • Engaging with stakeholders, including community members and advocacy groups, to gather perspectives that enrich the evaluation process.
  • Communicating findings through reports and presentations, translating complex data into accessible information for non-expert audiences.

Your work as a Senior Policy Evaluator not only enhances the accountability and transparency of public programs but also contributes to the continuous improvement of governmental strategies. By identifying what works and what doesn’t, you help foster evidence-based practices that ultimately lead to more effective governance and better outcomes for the population.

Senior Policy Evaluator Salary in New Hampshire

Annual Median: $89,780
Hourly Median: $43.17

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire

To become a Senior Policy Evaluator, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training that equip you with the analytical and research skills essential for the role. The following college degree programs are relevant for this career:

  • Econometrics and Quantitative Economics: This program focuses on the application of statistical methods and economic theory to analyze economic data, enabling you to evaluate policies effectively through quantitative analysis.

  • Public Policy Analysis: A degree in this field will provide you with the necessary skills to assess and formulate policies, emphasizing the evaluation processes and methodologies used in public decision-making.

  • Operations Research: This program covers the application of advanced analytical methods to help make better decisions. It provides training in modeling, optimization, and statistical analysis, all of which are valuable for evaluating policies.

  • Political Science and Government: Studying this discipline will give you insights into how political systems operate, the policy-making process, and the evaluation of governmental policies.

  • International Relations and Affairs: A degree in this area prepares you to understand global policies and their impacts, as well as the analytical skills needed to assess international policy decisions and their outcomes.

You may also benefit from additional training through internships or fellowships in policy analysis or evaluation to gain practical experience in the field.

Best Schools to become a Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire 2024

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:9%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:46,430

George Washington University

Washington, DC

In-State Tuition:$60,856
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,856
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:25,939

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

In-State Tuition:$60,480
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,480
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:31,275

American University

Washington, DC

In-State Tuition:$53,070
Out-of-State Tuition:$53,070
Admission Rate:41%
Graduation Rate:79%
Total Enrollment:13,885

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:45,307

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:26%
Graduation Rate:86%
Total Enrollment:26,420
Senior Policy Evaluator Job Description:
  • Review individual applications for insurance to evaluate degree of risk involved and determine acceptance of applications.

Senior Policy Evaluator Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire

  • Analytical Thinking: You will need the ability to analyze complex data sets and interpret quantitative and qualitative information to make informed recommendations.

  • Critical Thinking: Develop a strong capacity to evaluate policies critically, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and considering various perspectives.

  • Research Proficiency: Demonstrate expertise in conducting comprehensive literature reviews, utilizing research methodologies, and employing statistical analysis techniques.

  • Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in data collection, analysis, and reporting. Small discrepancies can significantly impact evaluation outcomes.

  • Communication Skills: Effectively convey findings through written reports and presentations. Your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively is essential.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and funding organizations, to gather insights and foster collaboration.

  • Project Management: Exhibit strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they progress on time and within budget.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You must approach challenges with creativity and resourcefulness, developing innovative solutions to enhance policy effectiveness.

  • Ethical Judgment: Uphold high ethical standards when evaluating policies, ensuring that your work adheres to relevant guidelines and promotes fairness.

  • Technical Proficiency: Utilize software tools for data analysis, visualization, and reporting. Familiarity with statistical software and data management systems is important.

  • Adaptability: Display flexibility in responding to changing environments and evolving policy landscapes, allowing you to pivot your approach as needed.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Build rapport with colleagues and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative work environment that encourages idea sharing and teamwork.

Job Duties for Senior Policy Evaluators

  • Decline excessive risks.

  • Examine documents to determine degree of risk from factors such as applicant health, financial standing and value, and condition of property.

  • Write to field representatives, medical personnel, or others to obtain further information, quote rates, or explain company underwriting policies.

Technologies and Skills Used by Senior Policy Evaluators

Data base user interface and query software

  • Database software
  • Microsoft Access

Financial analysis software

  • Delphi Technology
  • Valen Technologies Risk Manager

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

People and Technology Systems

  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire

  • The current job market for Senior Policy Evaluators in New Hampshire is characterized by steady demand due to increasing emphasis on data-driven decision-making across various sectors, including public policy, healthcare, and education.

  • Factors contributing to the demand include a growing need for accountability in government programs and initiatives, as well as the expansion of non-profit organizations focused on public interest issues.

  • Growth potential in this field is notable. As organizations increasingly recognize the value of expert evaluations to inform policy adjustments, the need for experienced evaluators is expected to rise.

  • Geographically, hotspots for Senior Policy Evaluators in New Hampshire include urban centers like Manchester and Nashua. These cities are home to a concentration of non-profits, think tanks, and government agencies that often seek policy evaluation expertise.

  • The presence of higher educational institutions in the region also fosters an environment conducive to policy-related work, creating opportunities for collaboration and research.

  • Additionally, key sectors such as healthcare and education reform are driving job openings in policy evaluation, with various state agencies and private entities looking for analysts to assess program effectiveness.

  • Networking events and conferences in cities like Concord also facilitate opportunities for professional growth and partnership in policy evaluation, further enhancing job prospects in the area.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire

  • American Evaluation Association (AEA)
    The AEA is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of evaluation practices. It offers resources such as webinars, publications, and an online community for evaluators.
    Visit AEA

  • Federal Evaluation Toolkit
    This toolkit provides evaluation resources from the U.S. government, including guidelines on how to conduct evaluations and manage evaluation projects effectively.
    Access the Toolkit

  • Society for Research Administrators International (SRAI)
    SRAI provides resources for professionals involved in research administration, including best practices in policy evaluation.
    Explore SRAI

  • The Campbell Collaboration
    This organization produces systematic reviews of evidence related to social policies and programs, providing a strong evidence base for evaluation professionals.
    Learn More

  • The Evaluators' Institute (TEI)
    TEI offers courses and training in evaluation methods and practices, allowing you to enhance your skills and knowledge in the field.
    Check TEI

  • National Institute of Health (NIH) Evaluation Resources
    The NIH provides various resources and guidelines for evaluating health-related programs, offering methodologies that can be adapted to other sectors.
    Visit NIH Evaluation

  • Harvard Kennedy School - Program in Criminal Justice Policy and Management
    This program offers research and evaluation resources relevant to public policy, especially in the criminal justice sector.
    Explore the Program

  • New Hampshire Center for Public Policy Studies
    This local organization conducts research and evaluation on public policy issues in New Hampshire and can provide insights and data relevant to state-level evaluations.
    Visit NH Center for Public Policy

  • The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
    Offers resources for school policy evaluators which may be useful in educational contexts or related policy area evaluations.
    Explore NASP

  • Books and Publications

    • "The Handbook of Practical Program Evaluation"
      • A comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of program evaluation with practical examples.
    • "Utilization-Focused Evaluation" by Michael Quinn Patton - Discusses methods for ensuring evaluations are useful to stakeholders.
      Available through major book retailers and libraries.

These resources will enhance your understanding of policy evaluation and provide you with essential tools and methodologies relevant to your career as a Senior Policy Evaluator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire

  • What is the primary role of a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    As a Senior Policy Evaluator, you assess the effectiveness of policies and programs through research and analysis. You collect data, conduct evaluations, and provide recommendations to improve policy outcomes.

  • What qualifications are required to become a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    Typically, you will need at least a master’s degree in public policy, public administration, statistics, or a related field. Extensive experience in policy evaluation and data analysis is also essential.

  • What skills are essential for success in this career?
    Key skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and project management. Proficiency in statistical software and data visualization tools is also critical.

  • Where do Senior Policy Evaluators typically work?
    You can find employment in various settings, including government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions.

  • What is the job outlook for Senior Policy Evaluators in New Hampshire?
    The job outlook is generally positive due to a growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making in government and non-profit sectors. The demand for skilled evaluators continues to increase.

  • What is the salary range for a Senior Policy Evaluator in New Hampshire?
    Salaries can vary based on experience and the specific organization, but you can expect a range between $75,000 to $120,000 per year.

  • What type of projects might a Senior Policy Evaluator work on?
    Projects may include evaluating public health programs, analyzing education policies, assessing economic development initiatives, and measuring the impact of social services.

  • Do Senior Policy Evaluators work independently or as part of a team?
    You will likely work both independently and as part of multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with stakeholders to gather insights and implement evaluations.

  • What advancements can I expect in this career?
    With experience, you may advance to management positions or become a subject matter expert. Opportunities may also exist to lead larger evaluation projects or serve as an advisor to policy-making bodies.

  • How can I gain experience in policy evaluation prior to becoming a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    Internships or entry-level positions in research or policy analysis, volunteering for non-profits, or participating in related academic projects can provide valuable experience. Networking with professionals in the field can also aid your career development.