Evaluation and Research Officer

The key duties of the position include: The Role You will work to the Assistant Director, Evaluation in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Branch, and collaborate with program managers to plan, develop, and undertake evaluations of mental health and wellbeing initiatives. This includes developing monitoring and evaluation frameworks (including program logics and data matrices), collecting and analysing quantitative and/or qualitative data, preparing comprehensive evaluation reports, and supporting commissioning of external evaluations. You will also contribute to building evaluation capability among Defence personnel. Success in this role requires initiative, sound judgment, strong communication skills, adaptability and the ability to work independently. About our Team The Mental Health and Wellbeing Branch is the lead for Workforce Mental Health policy and programs and enables the assured and continuous improvement of Mental Health & Wellbeing across the Defence enterprise. The Branch, comprised of military members and civilian employees, forms an inter-disciplinary team focused on improving the mental health and wellbeing of the Defence community. A primary function of the Branch is the facilitation and implementation of the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2030. The Evaluation and Data Directorate enhances the effectiveness of mental health and wellbeing initiatives by monitoring performance, conducting evaluations, and generating actionable insights that support evidence-based decision-making. The Evaluation Team: • Provides central oversight for evaluation of mental health and wellbeing initiatives; • Conducts evaluations of mental health and wellbeing initiatives; • Develops all necessary documentation for evaluation of mental health and wellbeing initiatives; • Builds workforce capacity in evaluation. Our Ideal Candidate Demonstrated experience in evaluation and/or research. Experience in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods and data analysis. High-level organisational skills, initiative, and the ability to influence others to achieve outcomes. Proven ability to develop clear plans, manage timeframes effectively, and respond positively to change and uncertainty. High-level written and verbal communication skills. Ability to collaborate within an integrated team environment. Strategic thinking and stakeholder engagement skills. Eligibility Security Clearance: Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Baseline Vetting” level. Getting to know the Department of Defence The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, AU

Posted Date: 11/16/2025