Director of Research and Evaluation

Job Responsibilities The Director of Research and Evaluation directs the design, analysis, and communication of key research and program evaluations that inform state education policy and decision-making. This position is responsible for producing high-quality reports, policy analyses, data visualizations and evaluations that support evidence-based improvements in South Caolina’s PK-12 education system. The Director works collaboratively with agency leadership, policymakers, education stakeholders, and external partners to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights. Key Responsibilities Designs and leads research studies and program evaluations related to state education policies, initiatives, and outcomes. Develops evaluation frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of education programs and policies. Ensures research and evaluation activities align with the agency’s strategic priorities and statutory responsibilities. Produces written reports, policy briefs, and presentations that communicate research findings clearly to policymakers, educators, and the public. Analyzes state and national education data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improving student outcomes. Translates complex data and research findings into accessible information for diverse audiences. Collaborates with agency staff and others to ensure data integrity, methodological rigor, and adherence to best practices in research and evaluation. Uses strategic thinking to translate ideas and concepts from research into practice/policy and concrete action plans, as well as anticipate long term challenges and trends to develop appropriate strategies. The Director works closely with other staff to ensure that the EOC’s research findings are presented in a variety of formats appropriate to various external audiences and collaborates closely with and communicates routinely and effectively with the Executive Director and other staff. Minimum and Additional Requirements Master’s degree or higher in education policy, public policy, economics, statistics, sociology, or a related field. Experience conducting policy research, program evaluation, or applied research in education or public policy. Strong analytical and statistical skills with experience interpreting large data sets. Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and accessible reports. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with PK-12 education policy or state education systems. Familiarity with state accountability systems, education data, or quantitative program evaluation frameworks. Experience presenting research findings to policymakers or senior leadership. Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS, SAS) and data visualization tools. Additional Comments The successful candidate’s work history will demonstrate that they have the following traits: Highly motivated/adaptable: should be a self-starter who is adaptable to changing needs and opportunities. Very analytical: a successful candidate enjoys figuring out the “why” of a problem. Efficient: the candidate should be able to work efficiently within the timeframes demanded by other work commitments Solution-driven: the successful candidate should be driven to look for solutions to complex problems The South Carolina Education Oversight Committee (EOC) is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.