Research Analyst – Military Weapon System, Mission, and Force Structure Evaluations

Overview:

The Science, Systems and Sustainment Division (S3D) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support several potential sponsors in the Department of War.   IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach.

Responsibilities:

The Analyst will conduct and lead high-visibility analyses to support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials on issues affecting the allocation of DoD resources for force structure and acquisition programs. The Analyst’s efforts will be focused on data-intensive analyses, at times developing mathematical and analytical models, with a particular emphasis on novel and rigorous approaches, including visual displays appropriate for highlighting major programmatic issues for the senior DoW leadership.   The analyst will evaluate the capabilities, effectiveness, feasibility, and costs of proposed and alternative forces, weapon systems, and programs and will make use of a variety of the Department’s data systems. Close interaction with government officials responsible for leading strategic studies is required. Occasional travel is expected.

Qualifications :

Candidates must have a: 

• PhD in a STEM field (such as Physics, Astronomy, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Statistics, Biology, Computer Science) or Operations Research, Data Science, or any other data-intensive research field; OR
• Masters degree (same fields as above) combined with military experience; 
   
• 2-5 years+ experience leading teams and analyses to support major sponsors in the DoW
• Technical skills should include building spreadsheet or more sophisticated models and analysis of large, unstructured data sets.  Basic coding skills in platforms such as R or Python desired but not required. 
• Must be able to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences and develop briefings and analytic products to support senior-level decision making. 
• Must be able to successfully obtain and maintain a security clearance 
• Some travel is required 
   

Why IDA?

We are committed to creating a workplace that fosters inclusion and values the unique perspectives and experiences of every individual. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond recruitment; it permeates our culture, policies, and practices. We strive to provide a respectful and supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best. Click here to view our vision, mission, and guiding principles.

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.