Operations Research Analyst

Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • Ability to optimize management of heterogeneous data sources for access and discovery.
  • Experience executing analytical experiments and prototyping across various domains.
  • Skills in identifying, mining, and collecting large structured and unstructured datasets.
  • Strong work ethic, accountability, and ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with software agility.

Responsibilities

  • Support DTRA in identifying program gaps and developing research projects.
  • Analyze proposal responses and recommend modifications for project progression.
  • Monitor research projects and pivot actions as needed.
  • Extract and analyze information to aid in decision-making for military and civilian operations.
  • Prepare technical documentation and briefings on methodologies and conclusions from projects.
  • Collaborate with project management on acquisition tasks and portfolio alignment.
  • Stay updated on novel S&T in CBRNE fields and evaluate associated technologies.

Benefits

  • Health insurance options including flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • Retirement savings plans for long-term financial security.
  • Life and disability insurance programs to secure employee wellbeing.
  • Paid and unpaid time away from work for personal needs.
Full Job Description
Overview

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

 

JOID assists the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in developing leading edge technologies to counter WMD in support of Combatant Commands (CCMDs) and transitioning these technologies to military services CCMDs. SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) WMD, Counter Improvised Threat and Countering Threat Network technologies to support understanding, detection, identification, characterization, denial, control, disabling, defeating, disposing, safeguarding the force, managing consequences, and test and evaluation in support of military and civilian operations.

 

We have an immediate need for an Operations Research Analyst to provide onsite support in Lorton, VA, at the DTRA headquarters.

Responsibilities

The candidate will support the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), Research and Development-Chemical Biological Department (RD-CB), Enabling Science (CBE) Division, Information Sciences Branch (CBEI). Assist in the following: digesting program gaps and requirements, assist in developing project capability research and development to address these gaps, analyzing proposal responses, advising on recommended path along with recommended modifications, and monitoring research project progression and actively analyze when a pivot in course of action are needed. Apply a solid understanding of chemical and biological agent threat modeling and simulation tools, data handling, and software development in this space. Support the management of technical projects that focus on the development of models, algorithms, and software assets aimed at aiding decision-makers predict, understand, and mitigate warfighter exposure threats in CB contested environments. Apply subject matter knowledge to extract usable information from various sources to aid in decision-making, analyze information for technology trends, and advise on the technical soundness of performer-developed algorithms, models, and capabilities. Prepare technical documentation and briefings to explain the performer-developed tool methodologies, associated assumptions, and conclusions derived from CB software capabilities. Collaborate with the Project Management team on acquisition and procurement tasks while assisting the Government with ensuring assigned portfolios are valuable and aligned to program goals. Contribute to analyzing, developing, and presenting strategic alignments to capability gaps, tracking and advancing transitions, and assisting with taskers for the assigned portfolio in line with the division’s vision and mission. Apply expertise in analyzing, interpreting, and applying modeling tools and an understanding of DoD initiatives aimed at closing knowledge gaps by supporting foundational research, hazard modeling, and data/computer science to support the warfighter. Stay abreast of current novel science and technology (S&T) in the field while exhibiting programmatic skills to trace capabilities to stakeholder requirements. Review technical reports, experimental or theoretical techniques, and scientific studies to ensure technical validity while evaluating current and future technologies. 

 

The position is for in-person work at DTRA HQ in Lorton, VA, at least 4 days a week to complete mission objectives.

Qualifications

Required:

  • BS degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related technical field.
  • Able to analyze and recommend approaches for making heterogeneous data sources broadly available for discoverability and access to support a wide consumer-base, analytic needs, and use by diverse applications, services, and systems.
  • Able to aid in optimizing the management of data across nodes and the performance of distribution, search, and retrieval.
  • Able to execute analytical experiments and prototyping to help solve problems across various domains and industries.
  • Able to identify relevant data sources and sets to mine for client business needs, and collect large structured and unstructured datasets and variables.
  • Ability to accomplish tasks with minimal supervision and a demonstrated proactive work approach, with a strong sense of accountability, work ethic, and punctuality.
  • Self-starter, self-motivated, problem solver, with demonstrated critical and analytical thinking and multi-tasking skills.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Agility with computer software and Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Skype).
  • Active DoD Secret clearance.
  • Broad understanding of DTRA and DTRA RD’s mission and organization.

Desired:

  • MS degree in a STEM or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in application of scientific principles for scientific research, analysis, and modeling involving data/software.
  • Experience within or working with the CBDP enterprise (JPEO, JSTO, JRO, National Labs, DoD Service Labs, DHS, DARPA, BARDA).
  • An understanding of database management, data trends analysis, data structures, databases, and data warehousing.
  • Experience working with national strategy and doctrine development or implementation.
  • Active DoD TS/SCI clearance.
  • Knowledge of, or experience in Federal/DoD acquisition.
  • Experience with AR/VR/XR, and TAK products.
  • Experience analyzing data to produce reports and improve processes for US Military Projects.
Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $88,000.00/Yr. - USD $105,000.00/Yr.

About Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc.

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Joining Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance a career in a leading-edge professional environment that is committed to innovation and leadership. This company is renowned for its strategic role in providing integral analysis and planning solutions across various sectors.

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Commitment to professional growth is a cornerstone of Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. Employees are encouraged to pursue continuous improvement through various training programs, including leadership development and diversity training. The company supports career advancement with resources and tools that help individuals expand their knowledge and take on new challenges.

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Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. is dedicated to supporting its employees with comprehensive benefits designed to promote a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as competitive retirement plans. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration are paramount.

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The hiring process at Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. is designed to be transparent and efficient. Candidates can expect a thorough interview process where they can showcase their skills and learn more about the company's operations and values. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed resume and cover letter through the Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. careers page.

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