The Role

We are seeking an Evaluation and Research Manager to lead Yiliyapinya’s evaluation and research program in collaboration with external researchers and evaluators. Responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the in-house Yili program (based at Oxley and Inala), consisting of:
  • Phase 1: Implementation (to July 2025)
  • Phase 2: Quality services (to December 2026)
• Evaluating Yiliyapinya’s programs as a whole to inform scaling up.
• Overseeing small research projects on specific components of the program.

Evaluation and research findings will support submissions for continued and expanded program funding and provide key insights to the Yiliyapinya community and the broader child and youth sector regarding essential factors for improving the wellbeing of vulnerable children, youth, and families.

Position Purpose

To conduct safe, participatory, value-based developmental evaluations and action research projects, directed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the systems and processes that form the foundation of the program, the critical elements of service delivery needed to achieve goals, and the program’s impact on participants, families, and communities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Evaluation and Research Management

Manage the administration and conduct of evaluations and research, including consultation processes, governance, and leadership, in accordance with the Evaluation and Research Framework.

Success Measure: The Evaluation Management Team has the necessary information for decision-making and is confident that evaluation and research progress as intended and are culturally informed.

2. Ethical Adherence

Ensure evaluations and research follow approved ethical protocols, especially those concerning programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Success Measure: Stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, have confidence in the evaluation and research processes.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

Maintain positive relationships with staff, Yiliyapinya participants, and stakeholders, centring the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders.

Success Measure: Stakeholders actively participate in evaluations and feel heard.

4. Data Collection and Analysis

Collect, analyse, and store qualitative and quantitative data in compliance with privacy and information legislation.

Success Measure: Evaluation and research findings fairly represent the available data.

5. Communication and Reporting

Communicate evaluation and research progress and findings at agreed times, using suitable formats and media to ensure the community has access to data provided by them.

Success Measure: Evaluation and research activities are widely available and beneficial to a broad range of stakeholders, including program participants.

Position Requirements

Skills & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the human services sector as a practitioner, volunteer, or individual with related lived experience.
• First Nations family connections and/or extensive experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues or community service participants.
• Strong cultural understandings, historical knowledge, and understanding of the impacts of colonisation.
• Empathy and relationship-building skills with highly vulnerable children, young people, and families.
• Knowledge of best practices in supporting disadvantaged children, young people, and families, or the ability to acquire such knowledge.

Qualifications:

A degree in a human services discipline, including research and/or evaluation.

Prior evaluation experience is highly valued, but a keen interest in evaluation as applied research practice and a willingness to learn will be considered.

Note: Ideally, the position will be filled by a First Nations person. However, non-Indigenous applicants who meet the criteria may apply and, if successful, will work with a cultural mentor.

Location

This position is based in Inala, Brisbane, and requires regular on-site work.

Remuneration

Conditions of employment are in accordance with the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS Award), based on qualifications and experience.

For Enquiries

Please send queries to [email protected]

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter outlining how you meet the position requirements and what you bring to the role. Email your application and CV to [email protected] with Application for Evaluation and Research Manager in the subject line.

Applications close: 29 January 2025.