Operations Research Analyst

Winvale

. Serve as an Operations Research Analyst in the Space and Strategic Systems Cost Analysis Division within CAPE .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeArlington • Virginia • United StatesJunior💰 $143,914 - $197,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in operations research, cost estimating methodologies, and advanced quantitative analysis to support Department of War programs. Capable of communicating complex findings effectively to diverse audiences while navigating bureaucratic environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Operations Research AnalysisCost Estimating MethodologiesQuantitative AnalyticsStatistical AnalysisTop Secret/SCI Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Mathematical MethodsStatistical TechniquesRegression-Based Cost EstimatingLearning Curve EquationsCost Data ReportingEarned Value ManagementCost AnalysisProgram Budget ReviewAnalysis of AlternativesCost Estimation

Soft Skills

Communication SkillsCollaborationInfluencing OutcomesIndependent ResearchTeam Leadership

Tools & Technologies

PowerPointWhite PapersReportsBriefingsMemos

Industry Keywords

Department of WarCAPE GuidanceAcquisition ProcessesPlanning Programming Budgeting Execution System (PPBES)Congressional RequirementsCost Reporting RequirementsMilitary ProgramsNational Security SystemsCost Analysis DivisionCost Estimating Law

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as an Operations Research Analyst in the Space and Strategic Systems Cost Analysis Division within CAPE
Develop or review Independent Cost Estimates for major Department of War programs at acquisition milestones or decision points
Prepare cost analyses supporting Department of War certification after critical Nunn-McCurdy breaches
Provide cost estimating support for resourcing alternatives during the annual Program Budget Review process
Support evaluation of Analysis of Alternatives for new weapon system or national security system capabilities
Analyze contractors’ forward pricing rates using historical trends and business-base projections
Prepare or support special studies and reports directed by Congress or senior Department of War leadership
Present analytical findings verbally and in writing to senior leaders and non-technical audiences
Work independently and/or serve as a senior analyst in team settings
Review and recommend approval of cost data reporting plans and ensure compliance
Conduct independent research on relationships between regulations, policies, strategic choices, and acquisition program cost, schedule, and performance outcomes

Requirements

What you’ll need

Degree in operations research from an accredited college/university; or at least 24 semester hours in operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics, including at least 3 semester hours of calculus
At least one year (12 months at 40 hours per week) of specialized experience demonstrating the duties and competencies for each GS level
GS-14: Experience with broad operations research analysis assignments involving unique problems, creativity, innovative quantitative analytic techniques, advanced approaches, and/or new technologies
GS-15: Experience leading teams in complex statistical analyses, evaluating large and complex cost estimates and lifecycle costs, evaluating large and complex military programs, performing complex analysis without defined goals and outcomes, and providing expert consultation and technical expertise to senior leaders
Mastery of mathematical, statistical, economic, operations research, and/or other scientific research methods
Experience using quantitative analytics to solve complex problems and develop cost estimates incorporating regression-based cost estimating relationships and learning curve equations
Knowledge of cost estimating methodologies and techniques for development, production, and operating and support cost estimates
Understanding of cost estimating law and policy, Congressional requirements, CAPE guidance and procedures, and source selection procedures
Knowledge of contractor and government cost reporting requirements, Earned Value Management, contractor pricing systems and rates
Experience evaluating technical and program characteristics driving costs for military weapon systems or other national security systems
Knowledge of DoW weapon system acquisition and contracting processes and the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution System (PPBES), or a similar resource allocation process
Ability to work across organizations, collaborate with internal and external representatives, navigate complex bureaucracies, build professional networks, and influence outcomes
Ability to communicate complex concepts and findings in concise plain language through emails, memos, PowerPoint briefs, white papers, reports, presentations, and briefings
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance
Open to all US Citizens
Resume limited to 2 pages and submitted as a PDF, with specified employment dates and hours
Accredited education documentation/transcripts required; foreign education must be shown equivalent to conventional U.S. education
Veterans preference, SF-50, military spouse preference, or other applicable documentation required where applicable
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service
Newly hired employees must complete employment eligibility verification through E-Verify

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation expenses not reimbursed
Occasional travel opportunities
Veterans’ preference and military spouse preference programs, where applicable
Potential consideration for similar positions for up to six months if not selected
CAPE benefits (referenced but not specified)