Open Source Research Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Research and Policy Analyst

Export Controls and End-Use Monitoring

*** As required by our governmental client, this position requires being a US Citizen AND an active SECRET CLEARANCE. ***

The Research and Policy Analyst will support the U.S. Department of State’s Country and End-User Analysis (CEA) Division in conducting analytical research, end-use monitoring, and risk assessments related to international defense trade and export controls.

This position supports the Blue Lantern Program, a key U.S. Government initiative designed to ensure that U.S. defense articles, services, and technology are transferred and used in accordance with U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives.

The ideal candidate is a strong researcher and analytical thinker with an interest in international affairs, export controls, geopolitical risk, technology security, and global trade. The role is well suited for candidates with backgrounds in policy analysis, international relations, research analysis, geopolitical risk, compliance, or national security studies.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Estimated Starting Salary Range for Research and Policy Analyst: Pay commensurate with experience.
• Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K and other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Key Responsibilities

Research and Analytical Support

• Conduct analytical research on foreign entities, end-users, and international transactions associated with U.S. defense exports.
• Evaluate information from open-source research, government reporting, public records, and international business resources to support end-use monitoring activities.
• Assess geopolitical, economic, and transactional factors that may present export control or diversion risks.
• Analyze international supply chains, ownership structures, and business relationships to identify potential compliance concerns or unauthorized intermediaries.
• Identify trends and emerging issues related to global defense trade, export control evasion, and technology security.

End-Use Monitoring and Risk Analysis

• Support Blue Lantern pre-license, post-license, and post-shipment reviews to verify compliance with U.S. export control regulations.
• Review export license applications and supporting documentation to assess end-user reliability and potential diversion risk.
• Draft analytical inquiries and communications for coordination with U.S. embassies, consulates, and interagency stakeholders.
• Analyze inquiry findings and prepare recommendations regarding licensing actions, compliance concerns, or additional review requirements.
• Assist in maintaining and improving screening and risk assessment processes for parties involved in defense trade.

Policy and Stakeholder Engagement

• Apply knowledge of U.S. export control regulations, including the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), in support of program objectives.
• Support collaboration with interagency partners including the Department of Defense, Department of Commerce, law enforcement agencies, and other U.S. Government stakeholders.
• Contribute to reports, briefings, policy memoranda, and presentations related to export controls, end-use monitoring, and technology security issues.
• Communicate analytical findings clearly and professionally to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in international relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Security Studies, International Trade, Economics, Research Analysis, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in research analysis, policy analysis, geopolitical risk analysis, international affairs, compliance, due diligence, or national security support.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex information into concise findings and recommendations.
• Experience conducting open-source research and evaluating information from multiple sources.
• Ability to manage multiple analytical tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and online research databases/tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with export controls, ITAR, AECA, sanctions, or international trade compliance.
• Experience supporting U.S. Government, foreign policy, international security, or defense-related programs.
• Knowledge of geopolitical risk analysis, technology security, or international business research.
• Experience with due diligence research, entity vetting, or risk assessment methodologies.
• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance preferred with ability to obtain one.
• Foreign language proficiency is a plus.

Desired Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Intellectual curiosity and investigative research aptitude.
• Interest in international security, foreign policy, and global trade issues.
• Ability to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and emerging risks within complex information environments.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in team-oriented and interagency environments.
• Professional judgment and attention to detail.

Why Join This Program

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives while developing expertise in export controls, international security, geopolitical risk analysis, and global defense trade. Analysts will work alongside experienced government professionals and gain exposure to complex international policy and compliance issues affecting global security and strategic trade.

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation System Solutions (CNSS) provides support, services, and solutions to federal and commercial customers.  The company takes a personalized approach to solving our clients' toughest challenges, helping you make the most of your skills.  CNSS is part of Cherokee Federal – a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies.  For more information, visit cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-WD1 #AppC

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