• Job Description

  Req#: 5298049
  Salary: $64,176.00 - $86,627.00 Annually
  Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
  Job Type: Exempt
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: WSAC 04-2026
  Department: Washington Student Achievement Council
  Opening Date: 04/13/2026
  
  Description
  The Council is seeking to fill a term appointment for one year from the date of hire within the Research Division of the Washington Student Achievement Council, renewable contingent upon continued available funding. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time. This job posting may be closed at any time without notice.
  Why work for the Washington Student Achievement Council?
  At the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), we are committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington. We believe that every person living in the state of Washington should have access to educational opportunities and be encouraged to pursue education or training beyond high school.
  
  To achieve our mission, we:
  • Lead statewide strategic planning to increase educational attainment.
  • Administer programs that help people access and pay for college.
  • Advocate for the economic, social, and civic benefits of higher education.
  • Learn more about the work of the Washington Student Achievement Council and our equity statement
  At WSAC
  Our programs and policies work with diverse communities to eliminate barriers to people pursuing education beyond high school. As an employer, we strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a competitive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
  • We offer flexible/alternative work schedules, wellness activities, and teleworking opportunities.
  • Eligible employees who are new parents or legal guardians can bring their infant (six weeks to six months) when returning to work.
  • Employees have access to tuition assistance and tuition waiver programs.
  • If you have experience advocating for communities of color or others who are experiencing educational inequities-including those directly impacted by the criminal justice system; people who identify as queer, trans, lesbian, gay or bisexual; veterans; and people with disabilities you are strongly encouraged to apply, even if you don't meet all of the desired/preferred qualification listed.
  Learn more about WSAC's mission and our commitment to equity. Our Commitment to Equity
  
  About the Research Division
  The Research Division provides information and analyses that guide the Washington Student Achievement Council's efforts to advance higher education attainment in the state. In support of the mission and goals of the Washington Student Achievement Council, the Research Division has four functional areas that inform the division's work:
  
  
  • Program Evaluation
  • Policy Research
  • Data Insights
  • Data Management, Privacy & Security
  
  The WSAC Research Division is committed to creating a workplace where all researchers thrive personally and professionally. We also believe that our researchers should reflect the rich diversity of the student population we aim to serve-in race, gender, age, culture, and beliefs-and we support this diversity through all of our research practices. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral values of the WSAC Research division, and a key strategic focus for WSAC as an agency. To continue to prioritize these values and associated activities, research staff centers the agency's equity lens and the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee's equity strategy to drive our work.
  About the Position
  
  The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) Research Division is seeking an Assistant Director of Research and Program Evaluation to support complex organizational learning and evaluation projects focused on adult learners.
  
  This role is ideal for someone with strong quantitative research skills who can work across complex data systems and translate findings into meaningful insights about program impact. We are looking for a candidate who is curious, collaborative, and committed to using research to improve educational opportunities, especially in ways that center the strengths, experiences, and needs of the communities we serve.
  
  In this role, you will work closely with the Adult Pathways team and other WSAC staff. The ideal candidate is someone who builds strong relationships and contributes positively to team environments.
  
  Under the direction of the Associate Director of Research and Program Evaluation, the Assistant Director will design and conduct research as part of the research unit's ongoing projects in collaboration with the agency's Adult Pathways team. Research activities will include identifying existing data sources, leading the design of new data collection when needed, and preparing available data for analysis. The Assistant Director will be responsible for co-interpreting research findings with agency staff and writing compelling, actionable policy briefs.
  
  Working at WSAC includes opportunities for professional growth, such as training in new tools/techniques, mentorships, and engagement with experienced outside consultants. Lifelong learners will thrive in this position. Individuals with direct academic, professional, or lived experience as adult learners will bring significant assets to the role.
  Duties
  Some of what you'll be doing includes:
  
  Developing and Implementing Learning and Evaluation Activities
  
  • With input from the Associate Director, lead the design and implementation of organizational learning activities for the Adult Pathways team.
  • Collaborate with agency staff as part of the evaluation activities, including designing evaluation plans, analyzing quantitative and or qualitative data, developing survey instruments for external audiences, and reviewing and synthesizing existing evidence in literature reviews.
  • Contribute to the identification, synthesis, and drafting of key findings identified during learning and evaluation of existing Adult Pathways initiatives.
  • Incorporate program staff and community voices into the research design as part of co-interpreting and contextualizing programmatic learning.
  • Bring an equity lens to designing and conducting research and evaluation, and reporting on research findings.
  
  Project Management and Communications
  
  • Establish internal timelines and monitor progress toward completion of learning and evaluation-related activities for the Adult Pathways learning agenda.
  • Contribute to strategic planning and execution of projects with project leads.
  • Work in partnership with colleagues on the Adult Pathways team to use data and evidence from research to make programmatic decisions.
  • Draft presentation, policy briefs, and technical reports to communicate activities and findings to various audiences.
  • Collaborate with the Associate Director to share lessons learned from the Adult Pathways learning and evaluation activities.
  
  
  Qualifications
  Required Education, Experience and Competencies
  
  • Master's degree in education policy, public administration, or a related field OR a combination of education and relevant experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and skills.
  • Direct experience designing and conducting quantitative research in an academic or professional setting.
  • Direct experience interpreting research findings.
  • Familiarity with program evaluation concepts and activities, and able to identify methodological challenges and revise research designs accordingly.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as with a team.
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple and differing projects, tasks, and assignments to ensure deadlines are met.
  • Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
  • Experience communicating with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain flexible in an environment of changing priorities.
  
  Preferred/ Desired Education, Experience and Competencies
  
  • Demonstrated experience presenting complex information to small and large groups.
  • Direct academic, professional, or lived experience as and/or with adult learners
  • Experience working with underrepresented/first-generation students and their families.
  • Fluency, or near-native fluency in Spanish. Ability to read, write and present relevant content in Spanish.
  • Experience in K-12 education, higher education, the public sector or community organizing.
  • Two or more years of research experience.
  • Understanding of issues related to college access and financial aid.
  
  
  Supplemental Information
  
  Application Procedures
  To be considered for this position you must possess the required qualification listed above. Find this job posting and complete your profile at . which must include the following:
  
  
  1. Letter of Application. A letter of application that addresses how you meet the required education and experience described in this announcement. Applications with generic cover letters will be considered nonresponsive and may eliminate the application from further consideration.
  2. Resume. A detailed resume including all educational and professional experience.
  3. References. A list of names, titles, emails, and current telephone numbers of three (3) employment references.
  Please Note: Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position. QUESTIONS?
  For questions about this recruitment contact Alisha Rollins at gov
  
  EEO Statement
  The Washington Student Achievement Council is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all applicants and employees. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and veterans are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation in the application process or wish to receive this job announcement in an alternative format, please call 360.485.1138 or email HumanResources@wsac.wa.gov
  More than Just a Paycheck!
  Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
  
  We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
  
  Read about our benefits:
  The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
  
  Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
  
  Insurance Benefits
  Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
  
  Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
  
  To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
  
  Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
  
  Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
  
  The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
  
  Retirement and Deferred Compensation
  State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
  
  Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
  
  Social Security
  All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
  
  Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
  
  Holidays
  Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
  
  Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
  
  Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
  
  Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
  
  Sick Leave
  Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
  
  Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  Vacation (Annual Leave)
  Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
  
  Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
  
  Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
  
  Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
  
  Military Leave
  Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
  
  Bereavement Leave
  Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
  
  Additional Leave
  Leave Sharing
  
  Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  Leave Without Pay
  
  Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
  
  Updated 01-07-2026
  01
  
  How did you learn about this employment opportunity?
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • Social media
  • WSAC website
  • other
  
  02
  
  If you chose "other" in the previous question, how did you learn about this employment opportunity?
  03
  
  How have you experienced, supported, or led equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in your current or previous roles?
  04
  
  I have the following experience. Check all that apply.
  • Experience designing and conducting quantitative research (e.g., using statistical software, analyzing datasets, interpreting results) in an academic or professional setting.
  • Experience interpreting research findings.
  • Experience communicating with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Experience with program evaluation concepts and activities.
  
  05
  
  I have the following education and experience
  • Master's degree in public policy, education or related field
  • A combination of relevant education and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and skills.
  • None of the above.
  
  06
  
  If you selected " a combination of relevant experience" in the previous question, please describe how your education and/or experience have prepared you to conduct research or program evaluation (e.g., coursework, professional experience, independent projects).
  07
  
  Have you had experience communicating research findings to non-technical audiences (e.g., reports, presentations, policy briefs)?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  08
  
  Select all that apply.
  • Demonstrated experience presenting complex information to small and large groups.
  • Direct academic, professional, or lived experience as and/or with adult learners
  • Experience working with underrepresented/first-generation students and their families.
  • Fluency, or near-native fluency in Spanish. Ability to read, write and present relevant content in Spanish.
  • Experience in K-12 education, higher education, the public sector or community organizing.
  • Two or more years of research experience.
  • Understanding of issues related to college access and financial aid.
  
  Required Question

• About the company

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