Lead Operations Research Analyst

United States Air Force

$129K — $167K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
  • Master's degree in operations research or equivalent coursework in mathematics and statistics.
  • Deep understanding of military operations, specifically Air Force and DoD doctrine.
  • Proficient in evaluating complex problems with innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

  • Drive the design of Joint & Combined wargames across multiple domains.
  • Lead teams in developing AI and data science solutions.
  • Brief senior defense leaders to enhance strategic decision-making.
  • Guide analytical teams in mission-critical operations.
  • Ensure continuous professional development in Cyber Workforce proficiency.

Benefits

  • Commitment to personal and professional growth with required continuous training.
  • Engagement in high-impact national security initiatives.
  • Collaboration with top defense leaders and analytical experts.
Full Job Description
Lead the future of homeland defense! As our premier modeling & simulation (M&S) authority, you will drive the design and execution of high-stakes Joint & Combined wargames spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber domains. You will guide talented analytical teams, pioneer cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science solutions, and brief senior defense leaders to sharpen strategic decision-making and national security readiness. Bring your advanced quantitative expertise, technical vision, and leadership to mission-critical operations. Must be a U.S. Citizen. Must be able to obtain and maintain a "Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)" security clearance. This is a designated Drug Testing Position. Must be able to meet foundational Cyber Workforce proficiency within 9 months, and meet resident proficiency within 12 months, followed by a minimum of 20 hours per year of Continuous Professional Development. Degree Requirements: Degree: Major in operations research; OR Coursework Combination: At least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus. Required Core Competencies: Scientific & M&S Knowledge: Professional knowledge of engineering, mathematics, statistical analysis, modeling/simulation, and/or other scientific concepts, principles, standards, methods, techniques, practices, and procedures. Joint Policy & Doctrine: Knowledge and understanding of agency, Air Force (AF), Department of Defense (DoD) and national-level doctrine, regulations, policies, guidelines, requirements, and initiatives related to assigned program(s) and/or project(s). Classified Control: Knowledge of security procedures to maintain control of classified material. Complex Problem Solving: Skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to identify, investigate, resolve complex issues or problems, and modify standard practices and techniques to solve complex interrelated problems. Technical Vision: Skill, judgment, resourcefulness, originality, and ability to foresee the impact of changing technology. You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above. Your application package (resume, supporting documents) will be used to determine your eligibility and qualifications. How to Apply: Click the apply button to complete an application and upload your two-page resume to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan (PDF or Word Doc) and/or additional supporting documents (Transcripts, certifications, Vet Docs (DD214), SF-50). As of 27 September 2025, Federal agencies will only accept resumes up to two pages in length. To learn more about the new resume requirements visit afciviliancareers.com/resumetips/ OR OPM Agency Guidance. To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please subscribe at www.Afciviliancareers.com and sign up to "Get Career Updates." Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. U.S. citizenship required. Must be of legal work age.

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