Research Analyst – Logistics Analysis

Overview

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) supporting the Department of Defense and other federal agencies that require rigorous and objective analysis of national security issues. The Strategy, Forces and Resources Division (SFRD) performs interdisciplinary analyses of plans and policies related to national security strategy; the structure and capabilities of U.S., allied and adversary forces; chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense; organizational efficiency, and management issues; and human capital challenges. SFRD has an opening for a Research Analyst to contribute to analyses principally focused US and international logistics research.

Responsibilities

Research Analysts at IDA are career research staff, typically with PhDs or extensive leadership experience or government service. Research Analysts engage with senior government officials to develop research programs on government policy, national security, budgetary, and program choices. Some research tasks will be narrowly focused, while others will address a broader spectrum of concerns. After defining a research question, this Research Analyst can expect to:

Develop a research plan, to include selection of appropriate methodologies and analytic tools;Staff the research plan, aligning IDA’s diverse talent pool to analytical needs;Implement the research plan, delivering expected products on an agreed-upon schedule and budget;Develop and deploy structured, qualitative and/or quantitative research strategies including those involving human subjects, various survey methods, interview protocols, literature reviews, tabletop exercises (TTXs), and war games;Collect or oversee the collection of data;Develop and/or apply software appropriate to the research problem and data sources Interact with research subjects, including government and military officials and subject matter experts, in the research process and with research sponsors in communicating results;Coordinate with IDA’s subject matter reviewers and technical editors as part of the review process;Employ written and verbal communication skills to convey research results to government sponsors and stakeholders; andDirect more junior research analysts and associates in development of data gathering, such as literature reviews, TTX inputs, interviews, analysis and interpretation efforts. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates who have demonstrated sustained professional accomplishment in the field of logistics planning and management during civilian or military service. Experience with OSD, Joint Staff, Service headquarters, and Geographic Combatant Commands is highly desired.

At least a Master's degree in national or international security, operations research, economics, engineering, logistics, quantitative political science, or methodologically similar disciplines and 8+ years of relevant experience. A pattern of civil service or military assignments, or participation in or leadership of research and analysis in a research institution, involving some or all of these areas:Definition and analysis of logistics capability requirements;Development or analysis of multi-year program plans for logistics and force sustainment capabilities within a resource decision making process;Comparative quantitative analyses of logistics programs or sustainment capabilities;Cost and/or cost-effectiveness analyses of logistics programs or capabilities;Development of vertically-integrated concepts in logistics domains (e.g., supply-chain management, maintenance and repair, transportation and distribution). Proven experience leading or operating as a member of an interdisciplinary teamAbility to communicate complex concepts simply and clearly in written and verbal form, to peers and government officialsExperience submitting research and analytic results to rigorous peer review

Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter outlining how their skill set, experiences, and education align with the defined responsibilities. Please upload as one document with resume. Additionally,

Candidates must be prepared to provide a writing sample. Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

About IDA

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a private, nonprofit corporation headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. IDA’s mission is to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science policy questions with objective analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise.

IDA embraces diversity and supports an inclusive work environment. Working here requires energy, commitment, flexibility, and teamwork. Whether you’re a graduate student ready to start your career, a professional looking for your next challenge, or a member of the military hoping to transition to the private sector while continuing to make a difference in the national security of your country, we offer exciting opportunities to learn and grow.

Sponsors rely on IDA for dispassionate, fact-based, and scientifically rigorous research and advice performed in a research environment free of commercial or shareholder interests where objectivity and the public interest are foremost.

The work produced by IDA is characterized by unquestioned objectivity and high quality. Because of our unique relationship with our U.S. Government sponsors, IDA enjoys unusual access to classified government information and sensitive corporate proprietary information.

Why work at IDA?

Competitive salary and benefits, including diverse health insurance options, generous 11% contribution to retirement, 6 weeks 100% paid parental leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement. Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our Nation’s warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL). Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning. Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications. A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours. Located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor, IDA's brand new Potomac Yard facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, workspaces and amenities, including a cafeteria, grab-n-go cafe and gym. Easy access to local dining and shopping, the Potomac Yard Metro stop, and the Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $300/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

U.S. Citizenship is required

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Click here to learn more about IDA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/SelfIdVideo.html