About the Role 
Pearson is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and forward-thinking Head of Assessment Scoring to lead the transformation of our large K-12 assessment scoring operations, overseeing a multi-million-dollar budget for an organization that hires over 15,000 seasonal professionals each year. This leader will architect the future of scoring by blending the best of human expertise with AI-powered scoring models; ensuring our complex scoring systems for writing, speaking, and constructed-response items are scalable, defensible, and designed to deliver timely, actionable insights. 

This role is focused on more than strictly operational excellence; it is about reimagining how scoring becomes a catalyst for learning impact. As a member of the K12 School Assessment leadership team, this role will play a key role in shaping the future strategy of assessment. 

Please note: This is a hybrid role based near Washington, D.C., with a hybrid work schedule and expectations of travel.

What You’ll Do 

Lead a holistic scoring strategy that brings together human raters, AI-enabled scoring, and psychometric integrity to deliver valid, reliable, and equitable scoring at scale. Across all item types; including a focus on complex domains like writing and speaking. 

Design and implement a future-forward scoring ecosystem that leverages automation for efficiency while elevating human scoring for tasks requiring nuance, empathy, and contextual interpretation. 

Oversee end-to-end delivery of scoring operations, ensuring speed, accuracy, and security across high-volume K-12 contracts—including national, state, and district assessments. 

Transform raw scores into meaningful insight, partnering with data, psychometric, and reporting teams to deliver feedback that supports student growth, educator action, and system-level improvement. 

Collaborate cross-functionally with AI/ML, psychometrics, product, and technology teams to continuously refine scoring models. Ensure our AI scoring is transparent, auditable, and equitable. 

Establish a rigorous governance framework for scoring operations that exceeds federal and state compliance requirements while advancing fairness and accessibility in all scoring models. 

Champion operational excellence and innovation, leading a high-performing team and complex vendor network while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, and customer satisfaction. 

Engage externally as a trusted thought leader, representing Pearson in conversations with clients, policymakers, and the broader industry around the future of scoring and AI. 

What You Bring 

10+ years of leadership experience in assessment scoring, operations, or learning analytics. Preferably in large-scale, high-stakes K-12 environments. 

Expertise in the design and delivery of complex scoring models, especially for writing, speaking, and other constructed-response item types. 

Strong understanding of AI/ML scoring applications, and a commitment to responsible, human-centered use of technology in educational measurement. 

Deep knowledge of psychometrics and the role of scoring in accountability, instruction, and student success. 

A proven ability to lead transformation. Balancing innovation with operational excellence at scale. 

Exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence across diverse technical and non-technical stakeholders. 

A relentless focus on impact, fairness, and insight. Ensuring that every score delivers value to the learner. 

Why This Role Matters 
More than 100 million tests are scored annually through Pearson, including millions of complex responses in writing and speaking. This is your opportunity to lead a scoring transformation that turns every assessment into a powerful moment of insight—supporting educators, empowering students, and ensuring our scoring systems keep pace with the future of learning.