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Defense Research Analyst information

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$38.5K

$74K

$99.5K

How much do defense research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense research analyst in the United States is $73,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Defense Research Analyst typically collaborate with military and civilian stakeholders during a project?

Defense Research Analysts frequently work in interdisciplinary teams, engaging with both military personnel and civilian experts to gather data, validate findings, and ensure recommendations align with operational needs. They often participate in briefings, workshops, and feedback sessions, translating complex analytical results into actionable insights for decision-makers. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as analysts must bridge technical analysis with real-world defense applications and policies.

What does a Defense Research Analyst do?

A Defense Research Analyst evaluates data, trends, and technologies to help improve national defense strategies and military operations. They conduct research, analyze intelligence, and provide recommendations to government agencies, military branches, or defense contractors. Their work can involve assessing threats, developing policy suggestions, and supporting the development of new defense systems or tactics. These analysts often use statistical models, simulations, and other analytical tools to inform decision-making.

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

To thrive as a Defense Research Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a background in political science, international relations, or a related field, and often an advanced degree. Proficiency with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), and knowledge of defense databases or intelligence systems are typically required. Exceptional critical thinking, clear communication, and attention to detail are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These competencies ensure accurate, actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making and national security initiatives.
More about Defense Research Analyst jobs
What job categories do people searching Defense Research Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Research Analyst jobs are:
Defense Research Analyst jobs near you
Operations Analyst - Defense Analytics DARPA

Operations Analyst - Defense Analytics DARPA

Chimera Enterprises International

Arlington, VA • On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
We are seeking Operations Research Analysts to provide quantitative decision support for a portfolio of defense research and development activities. These Key Personnel roles apply analytical methods and modeling to inform financial, operational, and transition‑related decisions across the organization.
Key Responsibilities (Narrative)
As an Operations Research Analyst, you will use quantitative techniques to help leadership understand and manage complex programs. You will support analysis of budget plans, execution profiles, and trade‑off scenarios, helping to illuminate the implications of different funding and scheduling options. You will work with financial and program management staff to develop data‑driven insights that support planning, resource allocation, and execution monitoring.
You will also analyze operational and tasking data to understand workload, throughput, and performance. By developing metrics, visualizations, and decision‑support tools, you will help leadership see where processes are working well and where adjustments may be needed. Your work will often involve pulling together information from multiple sources, structuring it for analysis, and presenting clear, actionable findings.
In support of acquisition and transition activities, you will examine lifecycle and performance data to identify trends and potential areas for improvement. You may help assess how programs progress from early research through transition, applying quantitative methods to evaluate options, risks, and likely outcomes. Throughout, you will collaborate closely with program managers, acquisition analysts, financial analysts, and other stakeholders to ensure that analytic products are aligned with real‑world needs and are delivered in a format that supports effective decision‑making.
Qualifications and Requirements
  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or a related technical field.
  • Experience:
    • At least 4 years of experience in operations research or a closely related analytical discipline supporting large organizations.
    • Experience gathering data and constructing mathematical or statistical models to describe systems and support decisions.
  • Security Clearance:
    • Active Top Secret (TS) clearance required.
  • Skills:
    • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including statistics, modeling, and/or optimization.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with one or more analytical tools (e.g., MATLAB, R, Python) is highly desirable.
    • Ability to translate complex analytic findings into clear, concise briefings and written products.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense financial, acquisition, or R&D organizations.
  • Familiarity with defense planning, programming, budgeting, and execution (PPBE) processes and related data.

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