Service and Systemic Change Evaluator

Do you feel passionately about improving the life chances of children, young people and families? Are you an experienced social researcher experienced in a range of evaluative methods and approaches? Want to work in a dynamic and practically applied context, with a smart, supportive team?  

Dartington Service Design Lab is an internationally respected social research and design charity focussed on using evidence to help those working with children and young people have a greater impact. We have over 60 years of experience working across the public and voluntary sectors to improve the lives of children and young people.  

We are seeking an experienced mixed methods social researcher, with a particular interest and expertise in evaluation. Whilst the role is varied, the primary focus is the formative, developmental and summative evaluation and iterative refinement of a range ofservice-level and place-based and/or systemic change initiatives focused on improving outcomes for children, families and communities. The work involves applying mixed methods and working with an inter-disciplinary team (internally and with collaborating partners).

Approaches will be tailored depending on the needs of each project but are likely to include theory-driven approaches such as theory of change, realistevaluation and contribution analysis alongside experimental or quasi-experimental methods. The candidate need not be expert in all but must have a curiosity and willingness to learn and apply different methods in a range of contexts.

The role is practically applied, varied and fast-paced - leading and contributing to multiple projects, concurrently. It involves working closely with internal and external collaborators, innovating to blend robust research methods with human-centred design and systems thinking approaches. We value curiosity, relational approaches, and evidence-informed approaches to advancing social justice.  

The role will suite someone who is impact-driven, able to lead and thrives in a dynamic and applied research environment. The successful candidate will enjoy a varied and independent role - working with great colleagues and partners on a wide range of projects and initiatives.

If we’re going to design impactful supports for children and families, we need to ensure our team is inclusive. Dartington Service Design Lab encourages applications from all backgrounds and strives to have a team with diverse skills, experiences and abilities. We are committed to progressing an anti-racist approach in all areas of our work.

Don’t meet every single requirement outlined in the Job Description? Studies have shown that women and racially minoritised groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single requirement. Dartington Service Design Lab is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience or qualifications don’t match the job description exactly, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might just be the right person to help us achieve our impact for children and young people.

As a team, we operate remotely across the UK. The successful candidate may be based anywhere in the UK. Our staff tend to work from home or when appropriate, together in local co-working spaces, and normally, every quarter we meet as a whole team in our beautiful Devon office.

The post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service certificate and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.