OPS Analyst

Computational Physics, Inc.

$105K — $125K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, geophysics, engineering, computer science, or related field from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • 3 years of experience in monitoring or troubleshooting automated data systems in a practical environment.
  • Ability to work effectively from standard operating procedures and use judgment in ambiguous situations.
  • Proficient in data analysis to identify anomalies; effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience in a 24/7 operations center is required.
  • Familiarity with precise timing technologies and radio astronomy data is preferred.
  • Knowledge of Linux system administration and scripting languages such as Python or Bash.

Responsibilities

  • Execute and monitor automated generation of operational products for USNO.
  • Inspect hardware and monitor automation systems for health status.
  • Identify and differentiate between acceptable and intervention-required anomalies.
  • Take corrective action according to SOPs or expert guidance during irregular conditions.
  • Report product availability and respond to inquiries from users and data providers.
  • Coordinate with technical staff and watch team lead regarding system functionality.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in a critical 24/7 operational environment with high-profile projects.
  • Experience in the U.S. Naval Observatory, a key entity in defense and navigation.
  • Potential for career advancement within a specialized technical team.
  • Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology in data acquisition and processing.
Full Job Description
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for a Full-Time Operations Analyst to support our customers at USNO DC.
Background

CPI supports the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) Operations Center in Washington, D.C. - USNO's single secure location for executing and monitoring the automated generation of the Navy's key operational timing and astrometric products. USNO determines and disseminates precise time and time interval (PTTI), Earth orientation parameters (EOP), and precise positions of celestial bodies for the Department of Defense, other federal agencies, and the public. These products underpin navigation, platform orientation, communications, intelligence, command and control, mission planning, and electronic warfare systems.

The Operations Analyst works as a member of the Operations Center watch team, reporting to a watch team lead. The primary responsibility is executing and monitoring the automated generation of USNO operational products and ensuring customer access to them. This includes:
  • Direct and remote inspection of hardware and monitoring the health status of automated data acquisition and reduction systems supporting Master Clock time determination and dissemination, EOP solutions, and VLBI data transfer and correlation
  • Recognizing anomalous conditions and distinguishing between unusual-but-acceptable behavior and situations requiring intervention, drawing on familiarity with multiple data sources and products
  • Taking timely remedial action per SOPs, established procedures, or direction from subject matter experts when unexpected results or alarm conditions occur
  • Interacting with data providers and product users - reporting product availability, responding to routine inquiries, and escalating alarm situations to the appropriate USNO personnel per SOP contact lists
  • Coordinating with the watch team lead, supervisor, and USNO technical staff on system functionality, SOP effectiveness, and assignment planning

This is a 24/7 watch operation. The position requires shift work and is designated Mission Essential - the incumbent may be directed to report during inclement weather, installation closure, or other emergency situations, and may be required to work off-hours shifts as the mission requires.
Qualifications
  • BS from an ABET-accredited institution in physics, astronomy, geophysics, engineering, computer science, or a closely related physical science discipline.

3 years of relevant technical experience, to include:
  • Monitoring, operating, or troubleshooting automated data acquisition, processing, or control systems in an operational (not purely research) environment
  • Working from written standard operating procedures and applying judgment where guidance is incomplete or does not cleanly fit the situation
  • Analyzing technical data to identify anomalies, and communicating findings clearly in writing and verbally
  • Working knowledge of the mathematics and basic statistics underlying the physical sciences
  • Watch floor, NOC, SOC, mission control, or other 24/7 operations center experience
  • Familiarity with precise timing (PTTI), atomic clocks, GNSS, Earth orientation, or VLBI/radio astronomy data
  • Linux system administration and monitoring tools (e.g., Nagios, Zabbix, Grafana); scripting in Python, Bash, or Perl
  • Experience with hardware inspection, rack-level equipment, and instrumentation
  • Prior U.S. military operations, technician, or DoD contractor experience

Active Secret clearance required at start; must be eligible for and willing to be processed for Top Secret / SCI.

U.S. citizenship is required for DoD contracts.
Position Details
  • Location: USNO, DC
  • On-Site Requirements: On Site
  • Employment Type: Full-Time
  • Salary Range: $105,000 - $125,000

To apply please visit our .

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