Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network (HCAN) is hiring a full-time Director of Research, Evaluation, and Policy, a strategic leader with expertise in research and data systems to guide evaluation efforts, build partnerships, and advance evidence-based practices that improve child and youth well-being. 

The Director will: 

• Work with the Executive Director to develop and implement the organizational learning, research, and evaluation agenda.
• Lead organizational learning, technical support, and research efforts and products.
• Build and maintain positive partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, and other policy-oriented institutions.
• In partnership with other units, is responsible for research, evaluation, policy, and learning product development (e.g., reports, score cards, practice manuals, and curriculum).
• Oversee the management and coordination of primary prevention coalitions, including Hawaiʻi Children’s Trust Fund Coalition (HCTF) and Prevent Child Abuse Hawaiʻi, which is the state’s chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America
• Oversee the use, maintenance, and quality control of participant/membership databases (NationBuilder). Develops evaluative dashboards and reports to support staff use and understanding of HCAN participant, member, and donor data in organizational decisions.
• Oversee the development and execution of the unit's fundraising, grant writing, and fee-for-service contract plan.
• Coordinate and manage the development of grant proposals and reports, and manage related grants and contracts.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with local, state, and national funders, donors, and other appropriate collaborative partners, community networks, and collaterals.
• Supervise the unit’s staff, including fellows, practicum students, and interns.
• Work with academic institutions to leverage human resources (e.g., fellows, practicum students, and interns) to support HCAN policy, evaluation, research, and organizational learning efforts.
• Support HCAN Spaks with special projects and member support.
• Provide technical support and testimony at the local, state, and federal levels
• Other projects and duties as necessary and assigned.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Director of Research, Evaluation, and Policy leads the design and implementation of research agendas and evaluation systems to measure program impact and inform strategic and policy advocacy decision-making. This position is responsible for building and managing relationships and partnerships with governmental, academic, and policy partners that support the identification and promotion of research and evidence-based practices related to child and youth well-being. This position also oversees resource development, including prospecting, acquisition, and execution of fee-for-service and grant-funded research and evaluation contracts. Strong analytical, statistical, written/oral communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills; expertise in research methodologies and data systems are required for this position.

View and download the full job description here. 

About HCAN

Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network (HCAN) advocates for children by building a unified voice, educating communities, and developing policies to ensure all keiki (children) are healthy, safe, and ready to learn, focusing on affordable healthcare, child safety, and economic security for families. HCAN works through public education, community organizing, policy advocacy, and connecting families with resources to create a supportive environment for children across
Hawaiʻi.

Salary Range: $80,000 - $95,000. This is an exempt, full-time position. 

Applications Preferred By: March 1, 2026. Position is open until filled.

Application Form

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