Research Analyst

TSTC•Washington, DC

10d•Onsite

About The Position

TSTC is seeking a highly skilled, mission-driven Research Analyst to support the Department of War’s Foreign Clearance Program (FCP). The role supports operational policy development, global access analysis, APACS system administration, cybersecurity oversight, and international engagement to help ensure the safe, compliant, and efficient movement of aircraft and personnel across international borders. The position is identified as Key Personnel. Candidates must be willing to sign a binding letter of commitment and be able to start 2 to 3 weeks after notification of contract award. The analyst develops and refines clearance concepts and overseas travel policy; analyzes global airspace access and international sovereignty requirements; manages Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG) content and archives; and provides on-site APACS policy, technical, and user support across NIPRNET and SIPRNET. The role also supports system updates and integrations, testing and cybersecurity, configuration management, training and outreach, and diplomatic clearance requirements for Prime Nuclear Airlift Force aircraft. The position is onsite in Washington, DC. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and currently hold a Secret security clearance. The posted salary range is $85,000 to $95,000 per year, though actual compensation may vary based on experience, geographic location, and contractual requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program.
At least 5 years of relevant experience.
Experience in policy development, international operations, aviation operations, or related fields.
Strong analytical and research skills, including the ability to interpret complex international regulations.
Technical proficiency in system administration, software support, or application lifecycle processes.
Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks such as RMF and eMASS.
Ability to manage sensitive information and maintain high attention to detail.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Skill with the MS Office suite.
Ability to work independently, proactively identify tasks, and complete them.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple teams, stakeholders, and subject-matter experts.
U.S. citizenship and a current Secret security clearance.
Willingness to sign a binding letter of commitment and ability to start 2 to 3 weeks after notification of contract award.

Nice To Haves

Experience with APACS, FCG, or DoD travel systems.
Prior work involving international sovereignty policies, Freedom of Navigation, or global airspace access.
Experience supporting high-visibility or mission-critical DoD programs.

Responsibilities

Develop and refine operational concepts for aircraft and personnel clearances, including passport policy.
Draft and recommend updates to overseas travel regulations based on emerging guidance.
Analyze global access and overflight challenges and provide recommendations to maximize airspace access.
Research and assess international sovereignty policies and technical structures, including Flight Information Regions.
Maintain and update classified and unclassified Foreign Clearance Guide websites.
Preserve an electronic archive of historical Foreign Clearance Guide versions.
Review, edit, and validate high-volume annual content changes for compliance with U.S. and international law.
Provide on-site subject-matter expertise, policy guidance, and user support for APACS on NIPRNET and SIPRNET.
Resolve user inquiries, manage trouble tickets, and support the APACS user base.
Support application updates, upgrades, bug fixes, API integration, and server patch coordination with DISA.
Track and consolidate system enhancement requests for the Configuration Control Board.
Implement Configuration Control Board-approved changes and develop software capabilities to meet emerging program needs.
Maintain a secure development, build, and testing environment for APACS and FCG systems.
Conduct code security scanning and corrective actions before deployment.
Perform system testing, validation, and evaluation of findings.
Serve as or coordinate with the Information System Security Manager to manage RMF/eMASS activities and maintain the system Authority to Operate.
Sustain configuration management processes, including version control, change documentation, and release tracking.
Develop and deliver Foreign Clearance Program training to U.S. Embassy Attachés, passport agents, and other stakeholders.
Lead outreach initiatives to strengthen workforce awareness and understanding of FCP policies.
Provide technical analysis and support diplomatic clearance requirements for PNAF aircraft covered in the FCG and Special Weapons Overflight Guide.

Benefits

Competitive salary and personal and team merit bonuses.
401(k) salary matching up to 3%.
Multiple medical, dental, and vision plans, plus HSA and FSA options.
TSTC-paid life and disability insurance, including short- and long-term plans.
Remote work, flexible schedules, and telework opportunities where available for the position.
Paid time off and paid holidays.
Continuous performance evaluation process.
Dedicated annual budget for educational opportunities.
Confidential employee assistance program.
Wellness Resource Group and wellness programs throughout the year.