Researcher

STR • Woburn, MA

9h

About The Position

The SAAM group is seeking a Researcher to join high-performing teams conducting large scale simulations and analysis to inform critical national security decisions. You will work with scientists and engineers to design mission-relevant scenarios, extend and modify complex simulation frameworks, and extract actionable insights from simulation results. This role requires both hands-on technical development—coding new capabilities and integrating models—and analytical thinking to interpret results and communicate findings to diverse audiences from program managers to senior leadership.

Requirements

• BS degree with 2+ years relevant experience, OR MS degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related STEM field
• Ability to obtain a Security Clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
• Experience with modeling and simulation tools for system performance analysis, mission planning, or capability assessment (e.g., large-scale defense simulations, multi-agent systems, discrete event simulation, or similar complex environments)
• Proficient in object-oriented programming with demonstrated experience in at least two of: C/C++, Python, MATLAB
• Demonstrated ability to develop, modify, or extend simulation models or analysis tools—not just running pre-built scenarios, but creating new capabilities
• Strong analytical skills with ability to critically evaluate data, identify insights, and draw defensible conclusions
• Strong communication skills with ability to explain technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to excel under limited guidance

Nice To Haves

• Active Security Clearance at the Secret or Top Secret (TS) level
• Hands-on experience with large-scale defense simulation frameworks such as AFSIM, JSE, or comparable platforms, including scenario development and model integration
• 3+ years of programming experience with complex simulation environments or open architecture systems
• Experience with modern software development practices including version control (Git), continuous integration, unit testing frameworks, and code reviews
• Background in systems analysis or operations research with coursework or experience in optimization, statistics, or decision analysis
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and system performance assessment methodologies
• Experience with algorithm optimization for real-time systems, especially radar, EW, or remote sensing applications
• Track record of briefing senior technical or government leadership on study results and recommendations

Responsibilities

• Develop and modify large scale simulations using frameworks such as AFSIM, JSE, or similar defense simulation environments to model complex operational scenarios
• Code and integrate system components including sensors, communications, command & control, weapons, and threat models using multiple programming languages including C++, Python, and MATLAB
• Design mission-relevant scenarios and assess operational effectiveness of existing and emerging capabilities in representative operational environments
• Analyze simulation outputs to identify trends, draw meaningful conclusions, and make data-driven recommendations
• Present findings clearly and persuasively to technical and non-technical audiences at all organizational levels, from engineers to executives
• Verify, validate, and test models and simulation frameworks to ensure fidelity and accuracy
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to support program execution and related research and development projects

Benefits

• STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees