Research Analyst - Space Systems

Space Systems Analyst - Operational Test and Evaluation

Apply your analytical skills to support the Department of Defense's operational assessment of military Space Systems. Provide rigorous independent analysis and insights to key decision-makers in the Department and Congress to ensure that our warfighters are equipped with operationally effective and suitable systems. Make a tangible impact for mission-driven work with great pay and benefits.

About IDA

This position is part of IDA's Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. IDA is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that delivers objective, rigorous analysis on the nation's toughest national security, technology, and science policy challenges. Our work is team-based, multi-disciplinary, and deeply impactful to national defense.

What does research look like in this position?

• Plan, design, observe, and analyze operational testing of military space systems to assess whether systems meet end-user needs under realistic conditions in conducting their missions, including human factors such as usability.
• Work independently, and in small teams, to advocate for adequate testing, ensuring that military systems are safe, effective, and suitable.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of systems by participating in Department-wide working groups, attending test events, and analyzing results.
• Conduct independent, in-depth analyses of test results to assess the effectiveness, suitability, and survivability of systems against realistic threats.
• Present findings to mid- and senior-level officials (e.g., presidential appointees, generals, admirals, etc.) through oral presentations and written reports.

What qualifications and skill-sets do you need?

Required:

• Candidate must meet one of the following education/experience combinations:
  • PhD in a STEM field (such as Physics, Space Science, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Engineering (such as Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering), Statistics, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Operations Research), or any other data-intensive research field; OR
  • Masters degree (same fields as above) along with 6+ years of work experience in research, system design/engineering, system operations, or policy; OR
  • Master's degree (same fields as above) combined with military experience in space systems
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical topics to non-technical audiences.
• Availability to travel approximately 25% time.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred:

• Prior military, DOD acquisition, and/or test and evaluation experience.
• Knowledgeable in space domain awareness, space control, spacecraft survivability, orbital dynamics, aerospace engineering, or modeling and simulation tools, such as a hydrocode.
• Experience with statistical software or programming languages used in research, engineering, testing, and analysis automation (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).

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.

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.

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 $112,924 - $263,335. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.