The principal challenges to this position are to solve the technical problems associated with the lack of reliable information, apply methods which accommodate the evaluation plan, formulate supported conclusions based on the data available and methods used, and ensure evaluation findings are clearly expressed and properly documented. The incumbent will face problems in dealing with various public, private agencies and elected or appointed local officials. These officials may view the evaluation as a technique to abolish projects and programs. Tact and diplomacy are often required to dispel these attitudes.
The incumbent is responsible for the accuracy and technical validity of all evaluation tasks and personally participates in each. The incumbent will utilize considerable technical writing and editing skills to accomplish the duties of this position. This position writes and edits all reports. Occasionally, the incumbent is assigned an evaluation to be accomplished solely by the incumbent. This position is also responsible for the completion of literature searches to support the process of evaluation. The incumbent is responsible for the organization and maintenance of a compendium of selected traffic safety publications and other reference materials.
The incumbent is constrained by the established policies of the department, Office of Highways Project Implementation, Bureau of Safety Programs and Engineering, and specific instructions of supervisors. The incumbent has the freedom to exercise wide latitude for independent thought and to initiate contacts in the academic and research community. S/he will recommend the use of consultant services to support evaluation projects when necessary and participate in the selection of such consultants.
The position requires the incumbent to develop and maintain working and professional contacts within the department and with federal and other state agencies. Externally, the incumbent has close contact with the academic and research institutions within the state. The incumbent also has contact with certain safety oriented and consulting organizations in the private sector. This position requires occasional travel which may include overnight stay. Successful completion of a background check is required.
The effectiveness of this position can be measured by the usability of previous studies, thoroughness of literature searches performed, accuracy and validity of project evaluations as well as their effect on overall program assessment and improvement of highway safety efforts at all levels.