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Research Development Analyst Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Director (R&D)

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$186K - $300K/yr

We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some ... Experience with automation of intelligence collection, orchestration, and analysis activities ...

Director (R&D)

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$186K - $300K/yr

We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some ... Experience with automation of intelligence collection, orchestration, and analysis activities ...

Ops Research Anst II

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$79K - $134K/yr

Provide policy research, recommendations, drafting, and interdepartmental coordination to ensure ... intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems ...

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Research Development Analyst information

See Reston, VA salary details

$40.1K

$77K

$103.5K

How much do research development analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development analyst in Reston, VA is $76,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,300.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Development Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, research methodology knowledge, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in a field like business, science, or social science. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as SPSS, Excel, or Tableau), grant management systems, and sometimes certifications in research administration are typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across departments set outstanding analysts apart. These competencies enable effective research planning, data-driven decision-making, and successful acquisition of funding in research-driven organizations.

What are Research Development Analysts?

Research Development Analysts are professionals who support the planning, development, and management of research projects, often within academic, government, or corporate environments. Their duties typically include identifying funding opportunities, assisting with grant proposal development, analyzing research trends, and coordinating collaborations between researchers and external partners. They play a key role in enhancing the competitiveness and success of research initiatives by providing strategic guidance, resources, and administrative support. Research Development Analysts also help ensure compliance with funding agency requirements and institutional policies. This position requires strong analytical, communication, and project management skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Research Development Analysts when supporting grant applications?

Research Development Analysts often encounter tight deadlines and the need to balance multiple projects simultaneously, as faculty and researchers may submit proposals close to submission dates. They must also stay updated on changing grant guidelines and funding priorities, ensuring all applications comply with complex requirements. Effective collaboration with faculty, administrative staff, and external partners is essential for gathering necessary materials and refining proposals. Strong organizational and communication skills help analysts navigate these challenges and contribute to successful funding outcomes.

What is the difference between Research Development Analyst vs Research Associate?

AspectResearch Development AnalystResearch Associate
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field, sometimes certifications in research methodsBachelor's or Master's in related field, often entry-level
Work EnvironmentCorporate, government, or research institutions focusing on project developmentLaboratories, academic settings, or field research environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like pharmaceuticals, tech, and government agencies for project planningCommon in academia and research labs conducting experiments and data collection

The Research Development Analyst primarily focuses on planning, coordinating, and supporting research projects to ensure successful development and implementation. In contrast, the Research Associate typically conducts experiments, gathers data, and supports research activities directly. While both roles require strong research skills, the Analyst emphasizes project management and strategic development, whereas the Associate is more involved in hands-on research tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Research Development Analyst jobs in Reston, VA? For Research Development Analyst jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Development Analyst jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development Analyst jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Research Development Analyst jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Research Development Analyst job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Development Analyst job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,950 per year, or $37 per hour.

$186K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the countrys most challenging technical problems.
All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Riverside Research is seeking a senior dynamic, strategic, operational, and growth focused Director to lead a research and development team.ย  As a key member of our Cognitive Intel Solutions (Sensors & Systems) group, the Director will pursue and grow applied R&D opportunities with IC and DoW customers (e.g. NGA, NRO, AFRL, military services, etc.), lead corporate-wide Independent Research & Development (IR&D) efforts and manage existing R&D contracts.ย  The Director will manage team members located across Fairfax, Lexington, and Beavercreek research offices while reporting to the Vice President of the Sensors & Systems Business Unit.


Responsibilities include but are not limited to:ย 

  • Development and execution of the portfolio strategy to pursue R&D funding to achieve annual growth
  • Provide technical direction, leadership, and management oversight of a substantial IR&D budget in artificial intelligence and software development.
  • Lead and shape capture and proposals, developing strategy to expand our existing technology baseline in alignment with the Riverside Research wide strategy and vision.
  • Significant customer interaction, initiating customer contact to create new business opportunities at DoD and IC organizations such as NRO, NGA, AFRL, USSF, SDA, etc.
  • Collaboration across the larger Riverside Research organization to facilitate the development and transition of revolutionary solutions in important technology areas in the intelligence automation, system and sensor orchestration and sensor technology spaces, including machine learning/artificial intelligence, system integration, field testing, data collection, and software development.
  • Experience as a Principal Investigator for programs, setting technical direction and guiding teams in executing complex development projects that regularly involve multiple technical fields and cross-disciplinary work.
  • Grow the next generation of associate directors, managers, and scientists through mentorship
  • A leader that is responsible for developing consensus from among competing inputs to include customer feedback, diverse technical opinions, and team dynamics

Riverside has created a collaborative culture that stands apart from their competitors. With a strong business base, forward-looking vantage point, and growing internal R&D capabilities, the Director will be strongly positioned to grow his/her enterprise.


  • Active TS/SCI clearance and ability to obtain SAP access.
  • A bachelor's degree and 15 yearsโ€™ experience, 12 years with a master's degree, 8 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience is typically required for an employee at this level, and 8 years of supervisory experience.
  • Experience in leading teams to solve complex technical problems, and developing and growing teams and an organization around a unified vision
  • Experience in new business capture, such as shaping program opportunities and proposal writing; preferred if experienced leading proposal efforts
  • Motivated individuals with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to perform a wide variety of related tasks, have exceptional oral and written skills, and experience presenting to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated understanding of program management processes and ability to prioritize multiple, concurrent tasks with minimal supervision
  • An established professional reputation for excellence in customer support and program execution
  • Collaborative leader with the highest integrity and moral compass
  • Sound business judgment, keen conceptual skills, intellectual discipline, self-confidence, imagination, well-developed management skills, and the personal ambition to play a major role in the growth and success of a high-end government research and services company with a strong heritage for high quality and responsive service to its clients
  • Other duties as assigned

Desired Qualifications

  • A bachelor's degree and 15 yearsโ€™ experience, 12 years with a master's degree, 8 years with a PhD
  • Experience with automation of intelligence collection, orchestration, and analysis activities through software, particularly efforts leveraging Agentic AI, Large Language Models (LLMโ€™s) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).
  • Has an existing network of USG Customer contacts at DoD and IC research and development organizations, or has experience growing and maintaining a customer contact network
  • Demonstrated success in leading the capture of DoD and / or IC R&D opportunities at organizations such as NRO, NGA, AFRL, DARPA, USSF, SDA,
  • Technology roadmap development experience
  • Experience with programming and scripting languages (e.g., Java, C++, MATLAB, Python, Bash)
  • Proven ability to lead a diverse organization across multiple sites
  • A minimum of bachelorโ€™s degree in related field (Engineering, Physics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, etc.) and several years of relevant experience required with strong preference for PhD degree.

$000,000- $000,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.
Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees.
Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veterans status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.