Research Analyst - Naval Warfare
About The Position
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst supporting the Department of Defense's assessments of the operational effectiveness and suitability of naval warfare systems. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package. The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational test and evaluation of Major Defense Acquisition Programs. In particular, the successful candidate will provide analytical support to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) regarding the testing and evaluation of Naval Warfare acquisition programs to include surface and sub-surface systems. This analytical support includes analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing, and providing an independent assessment to OSD's Director, Operational Test and Evaluation. Close interaction with government officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of at-sea tests and modeling and simulation runs is required. Travel is required.
Requirements
- Candidates must have relevant work experience compiling and analyzing quantitative data.
- A doctoral degree or 8+ years experience and a master's degree in Operations Research, Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, National Security, or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus.
- Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information as required.
- Candidate must successfully pass a background check.
- The position is located at IDA's Alexandria, Virginia headquarters.
- Up to 25% travel is required.
Nice To Haves
- Prior-Military, DoW acquisition, or test and evaluation experience is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational test and evaluation of Major Defense Acquisition Programs.
- Provide analytical support to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) regarding the testing and evaluation of Naval Warfare acquisition programs to include surface and sub-surface systems.
- Analyze the design, execution, and results of operational testing, and providing an independent assessment to OSD's Director, Operational Test and Evaluation.
- Close interaction with government officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of at-sea tests and modeling and simulation runs is required.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement
- Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL)
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications
- A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, partial telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours
- Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
- Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $325/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Industry
Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
