Operations Research Analyst

Winvale

. Conduct studies and assess efforts across strategic forces, conventional long-range strike and nuclear forces, homeland and missile defense, and science and technology and innovation portfolios .

Posted 10/15/2026full-timeArlington • Virginia • United StatesJunior💰 $102,415 - $197,200 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Conduct studies and assess efforts across strategic forces, conventional long-range strike and nuclear forces, homeland and missile defense, and science and technology and innovation portfolios
Assess technological and acquisition risks associated with developing and fielding capabilities
Apply analytical approaches to mission-focused policy, methodological, and administrative problems
Ensure analytical techniques are valid and appropriate and execute analyses using approved methodologies
Conduct analysis using R, Python, Excel, AI/ML techniques, MATLAB, ArcGIS, or similar programming/statistical software
Generate and present analytical findings clearly to senior leaders and nontechnical audiences
Work independently and within team settings
Lead Program Review teams evaluating changes to Defense Components’ Program Objective Memoranda
Advise senior leaders on methodological and analytical issues as a subject matter expert
Provide objective, analysis-based advice to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of War on Department activities, budgets, and strategic planning

Requirements

What you’ll need

Degree in operations research from an accredited college/university, or at least 24 semester hours in specified operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or related subject-matter courses, including at least 3 semester hours of calculus
At least 12 months of specialized experience equivalent to the applicable GS level
GS-12: Experience applying analytical, mathematical, and/or statistical theories, principles, and practices to complex studies, with effective communication and coalition-building ability; alternatively, a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree with 1 year of GS-11 specialized experience
GS-13: Experience extracting and organizing raw program and/or cost data, conducting basic mathematical analysis, and assisting with program/cost information development and implementation
GS-14: Experience with complex operations research assignments, scientific inquiry, mathematical models, computer programs, and program/cost data analysis
GS-15: Experience leading teams, performing complex statistical analyses, evaluating large military programs, conducting analyses without defined goals, and advising senior leaders
Mastery of mathematical reasoning and operations research, mathematical, statistical, and/or scientific research methods
Demonstrated quantitative analytics experience solving complex problems with innovative solutions and developing new methodologies or theories
Knowledge of Department of War nuclear enterprise, science and technology, communications, homeland defense, missile defense, space, hypersonics, chemical or biological defense programs
Thorough knowledge of U.S. defense policies and programs, allied military capabilities, and projected threats
Ability to review defense planning documents and prepare fact-based recommendations
Ability to collaborate across internal and external organizations, navigate complex bureaucracy, influence outcomes, and build a professional network
Ability to communicate complex concepts through emails, memos, PowerPoint briefs, white papers, reports, presentations, and briefings
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret or Top Secret/SCI security clearance
Open to all U.S. citizens
Foreign education must be shown equivalent to conventional U.S. education
Resume must be limited to 2 pages and include exact hours per week and employment dates
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 reimbursed: No
Veterans’ preference and military spouse preference programs
Potential consideration for similar positions for up to six months from the certificate date
Federal employment benefits (details referenced via CAPE Careers website)