Combat Simulation Systems Analyst

LLNL•Livermore, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is seeking a Systems Analyst to join its multidisciplinary team of applied modeling and simulation professionals within the Computational Engineering Division (CED) of the Engineering Directorate. This role supports national security mission areas, including Strategic Deterrence, Global Security, and National Ignition Facility Principal Associate Directorates. The Systems Analyst will work closely with operations researchers, weapon scientists, intelligence analysts, code developers, and other subject matter experts. The primary responsibility involves using tools like the Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration and Modeling (AFSIM) and Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) to assess military technologies and systems performance in various missions and operational environments. The position requires applying technical depth, critical thinking, and design principles to test, refine, and propose alternatives for achieving desired mission outcomes. This role may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence, with flexibility to work from home one or more days per week. The position can be filled at either the SES.1 or SES.2 level, depending on the candidate's knowledge and experience.

Requirements

Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q/SCI-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, operations research, or a related field, and/or experience in modeling military planning and operations, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
Experience with using conflict simulation tools such as AFSIM or JCATS to provide analytic insight.
Ability to approach difficult problems with enthusiasm and creativity.
Experience working with a team of scientists, engineers, and project managers to conduct system analysis studies.
Experience with one or more of the following programming tools: Python, R, MATLAB, Java, C++, or equivalent.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present and explain technical information to a variety of audiences.
Ability to travel.
Master’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, operations research, or a related field, and/or experience in modeling military planning and operations, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience (at SES.2 level).
Comprehensive experience with programming using Python, C++, or UNIX shell script (at SES.2 level).
Experience in modifying, extending, adapting, or enhancing existing combat simulation tools, such as AFSIM or JCATS (at SES.2 level).
Experience effectively managing concurrent technical tasks with conflicting priorities while working independently under limited direction (at SES.2 level).
Ability to independently develop and execute analyses, engage in any needed post-production data processing, prepare and finalize tailored reports (at SES.2 level).

Nice To Haves

Relevant experience working with the military operational community, substantive claims to military domain knowledge, or equivalent claim to subject matter expertise with respect to the national defense enterprise.
Experience with reinforcement learning application.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with scientists and researchers in a multidisciplinary team environment on the application of key technologies to military operations.
Leverage AFSIM and related modeling and simulation tools to analyze the application of key technologies to identified missions, identify and evaluate potential courses of action, determine their operational utility, and/or suggest possible alternatives.
Contribute to research and analysis addressing program and sponsor requirements.
Utilize tools such as AFSIM or the Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) programs to model and analyze operational scenarios.
Communicate with, deliver results to, and otherwise engage with project managers and other internal stakeholders as appropriate in a concise and effective way.
Document modeling and simulation methods, assumptions, results, and insights in reports and presentations.
Travel as required to support project managers in their programmatic sponsor interactions.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Contribute to and actively participate in the conception, design, and execution of original research addressing program and sponsor requirements (at SES.2 level).
Provide input on, and recommend enhancements to, modeling and simulation technologies, approaches, applications, and/or utility for specified projects and sponsors (at SES.2 level).
Modify, extend, adapt, or enhance existing combat simulation tools, such as AFSIM or the Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) programs (at SES.2 level).
Balance multiple projects/tasks and priorities of customers and partners to ensure deadlines are met, while working independently with limited direction within the scope of the assignment (at SES.2 level).