Research Analyst - Net Centric

at  Institute for Defense Analyses

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $112,924-$263,335. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
Net Centric and Space Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation
Apply your analytical skills to support the Department of Defense’s operational assessment of military DoD-Wide Information Systems and Space Systems. Provide rigorous independent analysis and insights to key decision-makers in the Department and Congress to ensure that our warfighters are equipped with operationally effective and suitable systems. Make a tangible impact for mission-driven work with great pay and benefits.
What is the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA)?
This position is in IDA’s Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. IDA, as a non-profit, is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extensive scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach.

What does research look like in this position?

• Plan, design, observe, and analyze operational testing of military information and space systems to assess whether systems meet end-user needs under realistic conditions in conducting their missions, including human factors such as usability.
• Work independently, and in small teams, to advocate for adequate testing, ensuring that military systems are safe, effective, and suitable.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of systems by participating in Department-wide working groups, attending test events, and analyzing results.
• Conduct independent, in-depth analyses of test results to assess the effectiveness, suitability, and survivability of systems against realistic threats.
• Present findings to mid- and senior-level Defense officials (e.g., presidential appointees, generals, admirals, etc.) through oral presentations and written reports.

What qualifications and skill-sets do you need?

Required:

• Candidate must meet one of the following education/experience combinations:
• PhD in a STEM field (such as Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Engineering (such as Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering), Statistics, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Operations Research), or any other data-intensive research field; OR
• Masters degree (same fields as above) along with 8+ years of work experience in research, system design/engineering, system operations, or policy.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical topics to non-technical audiences.
• Availability to travel approximately 25% time.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred:

• Prior military, DOD acquisition, and/or test and evaluation experience.
• Experience with statistical software or programming languages used in research, engineering, testing, and analysis automation (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).
• Familiarity with software development approaches.

Why work at IDA?

• Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 11% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
• Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
• Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
• A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, partial telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
• Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
• Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
• A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include a cafeteria, grab-n-go café, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $300/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?

• Complete the application and submit your resume.
• The application process consists of three interviews.
• A short screening call with IDA’s Human Resources;
• A 30 – 60 minute screening call with IDA researchers; and
• Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project.
• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
• Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
• 3 contacts that are willing to write a letter of recommendation; and
• A writing sample.

U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Click here to learn more about IDA’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
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Please refer the Job description for details