Program evaluators, also known as management analysts, design and execute systems to review the programming offered in educational facilities, residential care facilities, workplaces and government agencies. They document the strengths and weaknesses of programs and make recommendations for improving their success. Many program evaluators are self-employed and work as contract consultants.

Responsibilities of a Program Evaluator

A program evaluator creates a review process to evaluate the effectiveness of programs by developing feedback methods, conducting user interviews and recording results for evaluation. The program evaluator needs to train program staff members to interview customers and record information. He creates a plan to increase programming quality and user satisfaction, and may be required to deliver regular and annual reports to all stakeholders.

Skills Required for Program Evaluators

Program evaluation requires excellent communication skills, with the ability to give written and oral reports. A program evaluator should be familiar with current data-gathering techniques and technology. He must also be able to analyze and interpret data. Excellent interpersonal skills and knowledge of interviewing techniques are also required. The ideal candidate has a team-oriented attitude for training others in the program and a professional demeanor for interacting with stakeholders and program users.

Education and Experience

Entry-level evaluator positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in evaluation, business administration or a related field. Advanced positions require a master’s or doctoral degree. Coursework should cover business, evaluation, marketing, program design, psychology, research and statistics. Many employers require additional education and experience in the industry for which the job serves. For example, a program evaluator in a health-care facility may have been a nurse.

Salary for Program Evaluators

Salaries for program evaluators vary considerably from public to private sector jobs. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median annual salary for management analysts at $87,660 in 2020.

Job Outlook for Program Evaluators

According to the BLS, positions for program evaluators will grow 19 percent between 2012 and 2022. This expected rapid growth is due to an increase in demand from businesses and government organizations. Although plenty of jobs will be added to the industry, competition will remain stiff. Candidates with advanced degrees, specialized knowledge and industry experience will have an edge.

Management Analysts salary

• Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $156,840 ($75.40/hour)
• Median Annual Salary: $87,660 ($42.14/hour)
• Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $50,990 ($24.51/hour)