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Associate Research Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Taxable Entity MCCALLIE ASSOCIATES INC Job Title Operations Research Analyst Location CA Los Angeles AFB - El Segundo, 90245 US (Primary) Category Business Program Management and Administration Job ...

McCallie Associates, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Alutiiq, LLC, is accepting applications for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Operations Research Analyst to support the U.S. Space Force's Space ...

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Associate Research Analyst information

See California salary details

$38K

$73K

$98.2K

How much do associate research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate research analyst in California is $72,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A research associate position typically does not require a PhD; most roles prefer a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Relevant skills such as data analysis, research methods, and familiarity with tools like SPSS or Stata are often more important than advanced degrees. However, some specialized or senior research roles may prefer or require a PhD.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Research Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Research Analyst, you need strong analytical abilities, quantitative skills, and a relevant bachelor’s degree such as economics, finance, or statistics. Familiarity with data analysis tools like Excel, SPSS, R, or Python, and experience with databases or research management systems are typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication set outstanding analysts apart. These skills and qualities are vital for producing accurate insights, supporting evidence-based decisions, and conveying complex findings to stakeholders.

Will AI replace research analysts?

AI can automate certain data collection and analysis tasks for research analysts, increasing efficiency and accuracy. However, research analysts' skills in interpreting complex data, providing insights, and making strategic decisions remain essential, as AI tools are designed to support rather than fully replace human judgment.

How much does a research analyst get paid?

The average salary for an associate research analyst ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $45,000, while experienced analysts can earn over $80,000 with specialized skills and certifications. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits based on performance and company size.

What does an associate research analyst do?

An associate research analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to support business decisions and research projects. They often use statistical tools and software, prepare reports, and assist senior analysts in developing insights to inform strategies. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Research Analysts when transitioning from academic research to a corporate environment?

Associate Research Analysts often find that moving from academia to a corporate setting requires adapting to faster-paced timelines and more collaborative workflows. Unlike academic projects, which may span months or years, corporate research often demands actionable insights within tight deadlines. Additionally, analysts must learn to communicate findings clearly to non-technical stakeholders and prioritize projects based on business impact. Embracing these differences can help candidates thrive and demonstrate their value to the team.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Analyst jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Analyst jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Research Analyst jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Research Analyst job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Research Analyst job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,996 per year, or $35.1 per hour.
Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Alutiiq, LLC

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$215K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Taxable Entity
MCCALLIE ASSOCIATES INC
Job Title
Operations Research Analyst
Location
CA Los Angeles AFB - El Segundo, 90245 US (Primary)
Category
Business Program Management and Administration
Job Type
Full-time
Typical Pay/Range
$215,000 to $250,000 per year
Education
Master's Degree
Travel
Up to 25%
Security Clearance Required
TS/SCI
POSITION OVERVIEW AND PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS):
McCallie Associates, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Alutiiq, LLC, is accepting applications for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Operations Research Analyst to support the U.S. Space Force's Space Sensing directorate's specialized programs office at Los Angeles AFB. This role brings deep operations research expertise to modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) of complex space sensing missions - including wargaming, exercise analysis, test and evaluation, and assessment of advanced sensing concepts.
This position will lead quantitative analyses that directly inform senior Government decisions on capability investments, architectural alternatives, and operational concepts for missile warning, tracking, and defense missions.
  • Provide SME-level operations research analysis support to Space Sensing specialized programs and capability development efforts
  • Lead modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) activities using equation-based, numerical, statistical, and agent-based methods
  • Develop and apply analytical models for cross-enterprise architecture studies, development plans, technology development efforts, and military utility studies
  • Assess outcomes and evaluate plans for exercises, wargaming sessions, developmental and operational tests, and demonstrations
  • Apply operations research and systems engineering best practices to problem definition, scientific assumptions, study design, and model validation
  • Maintain configuration control of analytical models; support model V&V (verification and validation) per the SSC/SN Model Management Charter
  • Develop MS&A documentation and training materials; conduct MS&A training for Government analysts
  • Prepare analytical briefings, study reports, and decision support packages for senior Government audiences

This opportunity is for a POTENTIAL CONTRACT award and is contingent upon the contract being awarded. Consideration for a potential contract may require a signed letter of intent. If the contract is awarded, another position posting will be available on the Company Careers portal.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Systems Engineering, Physics, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related discipline
  • Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible operations research experience, with demonstrated SME-level depth in MS&A, wargaming, or quantitative decision support
  • Demonstrated experience supporting DoD or IC space, missile, or sensor system analysis
  • Proficiency with operations research analytical methods (linear/nonlinear programming, simulation, statistical inference, decision analysis, agent-based modeling)
  • Strong written and verbal communication; demonstrated ability to brief senior Government audiences

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or PhD in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline
  • Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force / Air Force space organizations
  • Experience with space-domain MS&A tools (STK, AGI suite, GMAT, custom space simulation environments)
  • Familiarity with AF Analyst Handbook methodologies

Expected salary range: $215,000 to $250,000 per year
Afognak Native Corporation and Afognak's direct and indirect subsidiaries, partnerships, joint ventures and affiliates to include Alutiiq, LLC; Afognak Commercial Group, LLC; Alutiiq Professional Consulting, LLC; and each of their respective domestic and foreign, direct and indirect subsidiaries, partnerships, joint ventures and affiliates are equal opportunity employers that do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws (collectively, "Protected Status").
The pay range information provided is a general guideline. The pay rate offered will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as geographic locations, market data, and other business considerations, as permitted by law.
Our full range of benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability protection, life insurance, prescription coverage, voluntary benefits, paid leave, and 401(k) retirement. Positions covered by the McNamara O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), Davis-Bacon Act (DBA), or a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), or Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will comply with the statute or CBA requirements as well as other client-customer contract requirements (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). For more information, please visit our Company's Career page.

Alutiiq logo

About Alutiiq

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Anchorage, AK, US

Year founded

1999

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