What a career in evaluation looks like

There is no one way to start a career in evaluation. This flexibility means you can shape your career around your passions and interests, entering the field from various directions and finding the path that suits you best.

People working in evaluation often start their careers in different ways. Some may start with formal education in evaluation, others through taking part in an evaluation process, while some might unexpectedly become evaluators. The last group sometimes describe themselves as “accidental evaluators”.

Choosing a career in evaluation means you can work in different focus areas, types of organizations, and roles. The many options available allow you to align your career path to your personal interests.

To understand the different possibilities within this field, it is important first to understand the complexity of the evaluation system, including the various actors in it, their roles, and how they work together.

In this section

  • There are many different types of organisations, individuals, and systems involved in the practice and use of evaluation. Understanding how these different actors interact can help you explore opportunities in the field and plan your career path.

  • Evaluation offers a wide range of roles across different sectors, from conducting evaluations to managing systems and supporting capacity development.

  • Understanding the different types of roles in evaluation is key to navigating the field and finding the right fit for your interests.

  • With the variety of roles, types of organizations, and sectors where evaluation is used, it is no wonder that people come into the field of evaluation through different entry points!

  • All career pathways are valuable and can offer rewarding careers. The specific aspects of a career in evaluation that you choose should be based on your specific interests, values, and circumstances.

  • Find the evaluation career path that suits you by taking the "What type of evaluator are you?" test, identifying roles and organisations that align with your results, and exploring helpful resources for your professional growth.

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