Research Analyst - Weapon Systems

Overview

The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst supporting the Department of Defense's assessments of ground combat vehicle survivability, personal protective equipment, and weapon and munitions lethality in support of live fire test and evaluation.  The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise.  IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. 

Responsibilities

The Live Fire group within OED supports and advises DoD officials regarding the live fire test and evaluation of Major Defense Acquisition Programs.  The Analyst will evaluate all aspects of ground vehicle survivability, which include withstanding hits to the vehicle (vulnerability), protecting crew and passengers (force protection), and detecting and avoiding threats (susceptibility).  Programs we have supported include armored vehicles, trucks, artillery, missiles, ammunition, body armor, helmets, and many more.   Additionally, the Analyst will evaluate the lethality of weapons and munitions and the performance of personal protective equipment.  The Analyst will support test planning, observe realistic survivability and lethality testing, conduct independent in-depth analyses of test results, and provide written assessments to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.  The Analyst will work independently and in small teams using their strong scientific and technical skills, particularly in the area of quantitative analysis.  The position involves close interaction with mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of live fire tests.  Up to 25% travel is required.

Required Qualifications

• Candidates must have relevant work experience compiling and analyzing quantitative data.
• PhD or 8+ years experience and a master’s degree in Operations Research, Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, National Security, or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus.
• Prior-Military, DoD acquisition, or test and evaluation experience is a plus.
• The position is located at IDA’s Alexandria, Virginia headquarters.
• Up to 25% travel is required.
• Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information as required.
• Candidates must successfully complete a background check.

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 (opening Fall 2022) 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.

1. 1. A short screening call with HR;
   2. A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
   3. 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:

1. 1. Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
   2. 3 letters of recommendation; and
   3. A writing sample.