Staff Operations Analyst (R3745)

Shield AI • Washington, DC

106d • $150,711 - $226,067

About The Position

The Operational Analyst role drives the modeling, simulation, and operational analysis of Shield AI’s autonomous aircraft systems. This position is critical to assessing mission effectiveness, survivability, and the broader operational impact of our next-generation UAS and autonomous platforms. This position requires a deep understanding of military operations, wargaming, modeling & simulation (M&S), and operational analysis techniques. Your work will directly shape Shield AI’s strategy by identifying how our AI-powered aircraft can best serve the evolving needs of modern warfare.

Requirements

• 6+ years of experience in operational analysis, modeling & simulation (M&S), or military operations research.
• Expertise in military mission analysis, operational planning, and wargaming methodologies.
• Proficiency with AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python, or other M&S tools used for aerospace and defense applications.
• Deep understanding of air combat, ISR, 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 with the ability to interpret large datasets and translate findings into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and briefing skills, with 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, 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 U.S. Air Force, Navy, or Special Operations Forces.
• Active Secret or Top-Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute operational analysis strategies to assess the effectiveness of autonomous aircraft in real-world military scenarios.
• Lead modeling, simulation, and wargaming efforts to evaluate system performance, mission impact, and survivability in contested environments.
• Work closely with engineering teams to translate operational insights into design decisions and system improvements.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses to assess system performance under varying operational conditions and threats.
• Utilize advanced modeling & simulation tools (e.g., AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python) to develop high-fidelity mission models.
• Analyze force-on-force engagements, sensor effectiveness, and autonomy-driven decision-making to optimize mission success.
• Collaborate with DoD stakeholders, operators, and warfighters to understand mission needs and align system capabilities with operational requirements.
• Develop and present technical reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leadership, customers, and government agencies.
• Support concept of operations (CONOPS) development for new AI-driven aircraft capabilities.
• Identify emerging threats and operational challenges, ensuring Shield AI’s systems remain ahead of adversary capabilities.

Benefits

• Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
• Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees