Research Analyst

TSTC • Washington, DC

3d • $85,000 - $95,000 • Onsite

About The Position

TSTC is seeking a 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 support, cybersecurity oversight, and international engagement, helping ensure safe, compliant, and efficient movement of aircraft and personnel across international borders. Candidates for this key personnel position must meet or exceed the stated requirements, be willing to sign a binding letter of commitment, and be able to start 2 to 3 weeks after notification of contract award.

The position is onsite in Washington, DC. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and currently hold a Secret security clearance. The posted annual salary range is $85,000–$95,000; actual compensation may vary based on experience, geographic location, and contractual requirements.

TSTC describes itself as an award-winning, woman-owned, HUBZone-certified small business serving federal intelligence, law enforcement, civilian, and defense agencies. Its employees are responsible for fulfilling the duties of their specific contract and complying with employment terms, the TSTC Code of Conduct, and applicable laws.

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.
• Proficiency with the MS Office suite.
• Ability to work independently, proactively identify work, and complete tasks.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple teams, stakeholders, and subject-matter experts.
• Must be a U.S. citizen and currently hold a Secret security clearance.
• Must be willing to sign a binding letter of commitment and able 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 recommend ways to maximize airspace access.
• Research and assess international sovereignty policies and technical structures such as Flight Information Regions.
• Maintain and update classified and unclassified Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG) websites.
• Preserve an electronic archive of historical FCG 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 APACS users.
• 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 (CCB).
• Implement CCB-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 (ISSM) to manage RMF/eMASS activities and maintain the system Authority to Operate (ATO).
• 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 Prime Nuclear Airlift Force (PNAF) aircraft addressed in the FCG and Special Weapons Overflight Guide (SWOG).

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level