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Missile Defense and Space Systems Research Analyst 

Overview

Apply your analytical skills to support the Department of War's operational assessment of missile defense and space systems. As part of the Operational Evaluation Division (OED) at the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) in Alexandria, VA, you will provide rigorous, independent analysis to key national decision-makers and Congress. Your insights will ensure that warfighters are equipped with systems that are safe, effective, suitable, and survivable under realistic operational conditions.

IDA operates as a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) dedicated to answering the nation's toughest national security and technology challenges through objective, team-based research.

Key Responsibilities

• Test Planning and Evaluation: Plan, design, observe, and conduct independent, in-depth analyses of operational testing for missile defense and space systems.
• Mission Threat Assessment: Analyze test results to evaluate system capabilities, limitations, and survivability against realistic threats throughout complete mission threads.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate closely with government officials responsible for test execution and participate in Department-wide working groups to develop firsthand system knowledge.
• High-Level Briefing: Author written reports and deliver oral presentations of technical findings to mid- and senior-level officials, including presidential appointees, generals, and admirals.

Qualifications

Required

• Education & Experience: One of the following combinations in a data-intensive STEM field (e.g., Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research):
  • A PhD degree.
  • A Master's degree combined with 6+ years of professional experience in research, system engineering, or policy.
  • A Master's degree combined with relevant military experience in missile defense or space systems.
• Communication: Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with a proven ability to explain complex technical topics to non-technical audiences.
• Clearance & Logistics: Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance, pass a background check, and travel approximately 25% of the time.

Preferred

• Prior experience in military operations, Department of War acquisition, or operational test and evaluation (OT&E).
• Domain expertise in some of the following areas: radars, missile systems, missile warning and tracking, command and control, satellite communications, orbital dynamics, or modeling and simulation tools.
• Proficiency with statistical software and programming languages used for engineering and analysis automation, such as R, Python, or MATLAB.

Why work at IDA?

         Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% 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 training, 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 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 cafeteria, 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 up to $340/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 HR;
  • A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and
  • Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
  • 3 letters of recommendation; and
  • A writing sample.

Benefits

At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.

Pay

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 $113,353-$277,494.  Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.