Senior Policy Evaluator in Washington Career Overview

As a Senior Policy Evaluator, you play a significant role in shaping the effectiveness of policies across various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private institutions. Your primary responsibility involves assessing the design, implementation, and outcomes of policies and programs to ensure they meet intended goals and serve the public effectively.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Data Analysis: You analyze quantitative and qualitative data to evaluate policy impacts, using statistical methods and analytical tools to draw informed conclusions.

  • Research Reporting: Your findings are compiled into detailed reports, providing actionable insights and recommendations that inform decision-makers and stakeholders on policies.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: You work closely with government officials, agencies, and community organizations to communicate your evaluations and facilitate discussions on potential policy adjustments or reforms.

  • Outcome Measurement: You design frameworks for measuring policy outcomes, ensuring that relevant indicators are established and properly monitored throughout the implementation process.

  • Policy Development Support: By providing evidence-based evaluations, you contribute to the development and refinement of existing and new policies, helping to ensure that they are relevant and effective in meeting societal needs.

Your expertise not only supports accountability in governance but also enhances the efficacy of public programs, ensuring that resources are used effectively to create positive social change.

Senior Policy Evaluator Salary in Washington

Annual Median: $94,850
Hourly Median: $45.6

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 Washington

To become a Senior Policy Evaluator, you generally need to complete a relevant educational pathway that equips you with the knowledge and expertise necessary for the role. Consider pursuing one of the following college degree programs:

  • Econometrics and Quantitative Economics
    This program focuses on the application of statistical methods to economic data, preparing you for roles that require rigorous data analysis in policy evaluation.

  • Public Policy Analysis
    A degree in this field provides you with the tools to assess and influence policy decisions, focusing on evaluation techniques and policy effectiveness.

  • Operations Research
    This discipline involves using mathematical models and analytical methods to make decisions, which is essential for evaluating policy options and outcomes.

  • Political Science and Government
    Studying political structures, processes, and policies helps you understand the context in which policies are developed and assessed, forming a strong foundation for a career in policy evaluation.

  • International Relations and Affairs
    This program offers insight into global politics and policy-making, equipping you with the skills to evaluate policies that transcend national boundaries.

Achieving a graduate degree in any of these fields is often optimal, and many Senior Policy Evaluators also pursue additional certifications relevant to public policy and evaluation methods.

Best Schools to become a Senior Policy Evaluator in Washington 2024

#1Los Angeles County

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
#2District of Columbia

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
#3Baltimore City

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
#4District of Columbia

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
#5Alameda County

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
#6Santa Barbara County

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 Washington

  • Analytical Thinking: You must be adept at analyzing complex data and evaluating the implications of policies. This involves not only understanding numerical data but also interpreting qualitative information to derive meaningful insights.

  • Quantitative Skills: Proficiency in statistical analysis and data interpretation is essential. Familiarity with statistical software and tools will enable you to assess policy outcomes effectively.

  • Research Skills: You should have the ability to conduct thorough literature reviews and synthesize findings from multiple sources. Understanding various research methodologies will aid in assessing the efficacy of policies.

  • Critical Thinking: You need to evaluate various policy alternatives with a balanced perspective and identify potential impacts, advantages, and disadvantages associated with each.

  • Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for conveying complex information clearly and persuasively. You will often prepare reports, presentations, and policy briefs for diverse audiences.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: You should be skilled at engaging with various stakeholders, including government officials, community members, and organizational leaders. Building strong relationships will facilitate your evaluations and recommendations.

  • Project Management: Proficiency in managing projects, timelines, and budgets is important. You should be able to oversee evaluations from inception to completion while ensuring adherence to deadlines and resource constraints.

  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail will help you identify discrepancies and nuances in data and reports, ensuring that your evaluations are accurate and reliable.

  • Problem-Solving: You need to employ creative problem-solving skills to address challenges that arise during policy evaluation processes. This includes proposing innovative solutions grounded in evidence.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in dynamic environments is important. You should be open to feedback and willing to modify your approaches as needed.

  • Ethical Judgment: Strong ethical standards should inform your evaluations. You must consider the broader social implications of policies and ensure that your work adheres to ethical guidelines.

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 Washington

The current job market for Senior Policy Evaluators in Washington reflects a growing demand driven by an increasing focus on data-driven decision-making across various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private enterprises.

  • Demand: There is a notable rise in demand for Senior Policy Evaluators as organizations strive to assess the effectiveness of their policies and programs. This trend is particularly pronounced in areas related to public health, education, environmental policy, and social services.

  • Growth Potential: The growth potential in this field is robust, with many organizations expanding their teams to bolster evaluation capabilities. The emergence of new technologies and methodologies for data collection and analysis is enhancing the role of evaluators, leading to more opportunities for advancement.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Seattle: As a major urban center, Seattle boasts a high concentration of non-profit and public sector jobs that require evaluation expertise. The presence of research institutions and think tanks further amplifies opportunities.
    • Tacoma: Emerging as a hub for social services and urban planning, Tacoma offers opportunities in policy evaluation, especially concerning community development projects.
    • Olympia: As the state capital, Olympia is home to numerous governmental agencies that actively seek Senior Policy Evaluators to assess the efficacy of policies and programs implemented at the state level.
    • Spokane: This city is seeing an increase in job openings related to regional development and health initiatives, indicating a growing need for policy evaluation skills.

  • Sector Opportunities:

    • Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local government entities routinely seek evaluators to measure program success and inform policy adjustments.
    • Non-Profit Organizations: Many non-profits rely on Senior Policy Evaluators to assess impacts and effectively allocate resources, leading to ongoing job openings in this sector.
    • Private Sector: Corporations involved in consulting and policy analysis are increasingly interested in hiring evaluators to guide their strategies and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks.

In summary, the outlook for Senior Policy Evaluators in Washington is encouraging, characterized by a vibrant job market and diverse opportunities across various locales and sectors.

Top Related Careers to Senior Policy Evaluator 2024

Claims Analyst
Risk Assessment Specialist
Commercial Lines Underwriter
Health Insurance Underwriter

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Senior Policy Evaluator in Washington

  • American Evaluation Association (AEA)
    AEA provides a wealth of resources for evaluators including publications, webinars, and networking opportunities.
    Visit AEA

  • The Evaluation Center at Western Michigan University
    This center produces various resources related to evaluation standards, methods, and case studies.
    Visit The Evaluation Center

  • The Urban Institute
    The Urban Institute conducts economic and social policy research and provides free access to reports and data regarding policy evaluation.
    Visit Urban Institute

  • Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD)
    SRCD offers resources on policy evaluation related to child development and welfare. Their publications often include policy analysis relevant to evaluators.
    Visit SRCD

  • American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR)
    AAPOR focuses on the role of data in social science research, providing resources on methodologies that can enhance your evaluation practice.
    Visit AAPOR

  • National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
    This organization provides rigorous studies on various policy issues including evaluation reports that can aid in understanding effective policies.
    Visit National Academies

  • The Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation
    They have established evaluation standards across various fields, which can help guide policy evaluators in their assessments.
    Visit Joint Committee

  • The Center for Evaluation Innovation
    This organization focuses on innovative evaluation approaches and offers insights that can enhance your evaluation skills and methodologies.
    Visit Evaluation Innovation

  • Learning and Evaluation Resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
    The CDC provides a range of resources focused on evaluation specific to health policies, which can be quite informative for Senior Policy Evaluators working in health sectors.
    Visit CDC

  • Books and Journals
    Consider reading key publications such as:

    • "Evaluation: A Systematic Approach" by Peter G. Hansen
    • "Utilization-Focused Evaluation" by Michael Quinn Patton
    • Journals like the "American Journal of Evaluation" and "New Directions for Evaluation" for current research and practice trends.

Utilizing these resources will significantly enhance your knowledge base and provide valuable networking opportunities in the field of policy evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Senior Policy Evaluator in Washington

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    You will analyze and assess the effectiveness of policies and programs, develop evaluation frameworks, utilize quantitative and qualitative methods to gather data, and communicate findings to stakeholders.

  • What qualifications are needed for this role?
    Typically, you will need a master's degree in public policy, political science, statistics, or a related field. Professional experience in policy analysis, research methodologies, and evaluation practices is also essential.

  • What skills are most important for a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    Key skills include strong analytical capabilities, proficiency in statistical software, excellent communication skills, project management abilities, and an understanding of governmental processes and policies.

  • Is certification necessary for a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    While not always required, obtaining credentials such as the Certified Evaluation Expert (CEE) or certifications in program evaluation can enhance your qualifications and marketability.

  • Where can Senior Policy Evaluators typically find employment?
    Positions can be found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, or consultancy firms that specialize in policy evaluation and analysis.

  • What is the typical salary range for a Senior Policy Evaluator in Washington?
    Salaries generally range from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and the specific organization.

  • What are the job growth prospects for this career?
    The demand for policy evaluators is expected to grow as governments and organizations increasingly seek data-driven decision-making. Opportunities are particularly strong in fields such as health policy, education, and social services.

  • How important is networking in advancing my career as a Senior Policy Evaluator?
    Networking is very important. Building relationships with professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and insight into industry trends and best practices.

  • What role does technology play in policy evaluation?
    Technology is a vital component, as it facilitates data collection, analysis, and visualization. Familiarity with data analysis tools and software is beneficial for efficient and accurate evaluations.

  • Can a Senior Policy Evaluator transition to other roles within the policy sector?
    Yes, many Senior Policy Evaluators move into senior management, advisory roles, or specialized areas such as program management or policy development, leveraging their skills and experience to broaden their career paths.