Senior Staff Operational Analyst - Ranger (R6385)

Shield AI•Seattle, WA

3d•$225,000 - $340,000

About The Position

Shield AI is seeking an Operational Analyst to lead modeling, simulation, and analysis of its autonomous aircraft systems. The role evaluates mission effectiveness, survivability, and operational impact for next-generation unmanned aircraft systems and other autonomous platforms. It partners with engineering, product development, and defense stakeholders to inform design trade-offs, assess performance, and optimize mission capabilities. The work requires knowledge of military operations, wargaming, modeling and simulation, and operational analysis, and will help shape how Shield AI’s aircraft address modern warfare needs.

Requirements

At least 10 years of experience in operational analysis, modeling and simulation, or military operations research.
Expertise in military mission analysis, operational planning, and wargaming methodologies.
Proficiency with AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python, or other modeling and simulation tools used for aerospace and defense applications.
Deep understanding of air combat, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or autonomous systems in contested environments.
Experience working with DoD stakeholders, warfighters, and government agencies to align capabilities with mission requirements.
Strong analytical skills, including interpreting large datasets and translating findings into actionable insights.
Excellent communication and briefing skills, including experience presenting to senior leadership, customers, and military personnel.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with shifting priorities.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in force-on-force analysis, CONOPS development, or military campaign modeling.
Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS), and military operational testing.
Experience integrating AI-driven decision-making algorithms into operational analysis frameworks.
Prior military service or experience working with the U.S. Air Force, Navy, or Special Operations Forces.
Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute operational analysis strategies to assess autonomous aircraft effectiveness in military scenarios.
Lead modeling, simulation, and wargaming efforts evaluating system performance, mission impact, and survivability in contested environments.
Work with engineering teams to translate operational insights into design decisions and system improvements.
Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses under varying operational conditions and threats.
Use modeling and simulation tools to develop high-fidelity mission models.
Analyze force-on-force engagements, sensor effectiveness, and autonomy-driven decision-making to optimize mission success.
Collaborate with Department of Defense stakeholders, operators, and warfighters to understand mission needs and align capabilities with operational requirements.
Develop and present technical reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leadership, customers, and government agencies.
Support concept of operations development for new AI-driven aircraft capabilities.
Identify emerging threats and operational challenges to help Shield AI systems remain ahead of adversary capabilities.