Research Analyst – Air Warfare
About the role
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support the Department of War's assessment of the operational effectiveness, suitability, survivability, and lethality of Air Warfare-related Major Defense Acquisition Programs. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non‑profit corporation that provides objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff conduct multi‑disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA takes pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, 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. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities
- Support and advise mid‑ and senior‑level civilian and military officials regarding the operational evaluation of airborne early warning, fighter, and bomber aircraft, air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground weapons, spectrum warfare systems, and battle management systems.
- Analyze the design, execution, and results of operational testing and associated modeling and simulation activity, and provide an independent assessment to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation within the Department of War.
- Maintain close interaction with officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of tests.
- Travel is required (up to 25%).
Requirements
- PhD in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or PhD in a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas coupled with 4+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas coupled with 6+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Demonstrated computational and data analysis skills.
- Proficiency in Python, R, or similar data analytics tools and software.
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance required; eligibility for TS/SCI clearance, with a current TS/SCI desired.
Qualifications
- Experience with military or civilian aircraft operations, acquisition, or testing is strongly preferred.
- Experience with advanced aviation technologies such as low observable technologies, air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground weaponry, advanced sensors, or data links is desired.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance options (medical, stand‑alone dental, vision).
- Generous 10% contribution to retirement Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service.
- Maternity/paternity leave.
- 20 days paid time off (plus 10 paid holidays).
- Relocation reimbursement.
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) as a non‑profit employee.
- Professional development: tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, funding for researcher‑pitched projects and publications.
- Strong work‑life balance culture: average 40‑hour work weeks, communication limited to core business hours.
- Organization‑wide commitment to diversity and an inclusive, discrimination‑free workplace.
- Flat corporate structure encouraging collaboration and the ability to choose your own projects.
- Brand‑new facility in Alexandria’s high‑tech corridor (Potomac Yard) with cafeteria, gym, close proximity to dining and shopping.
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop.
- Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
- Flexible work environment and Employee Assistance Plan.
Pay
Based on data‑driven market analysis, the reasonable salary estimate 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.