Research Analyst - Live Fire Test & Evaluation

Contribute to independent evaluations of military systems to ensure that our warfighters are equipped with safe and effective systems for combat. Make a tangible impact for mission-driven work with great pay and benefits. The Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E) team in the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) Operational Evaluation Division (OED) provides independent and objective evaluations of new or upgraded military systems. Live fire testing—firing of actual weapons against representative targets (lethality) or realistic threats against actual Department of War (DoW) systems (survivability)—is inherently destructive, so the ability to carefully plan and optimize test designs is essential. The LFT&E team is currently looking for talented individuals who enjoy using science, mathematics, or engineering skills to solve unique and unstructured technical problems, and who want to contribute to our nation's defense in a nonprofit environment. What does research look like in this position? Plan, design, observe, and analyze live fire tests of military systems such as ground combat vehicles, rotary wing aircraft, weapons, and body armor. Conduct independent, in-depth analyses of test results to assess survivability of systems against realistic threats or effectiveness of weapons against realistic targets. Present findings to mid- and senior-level Defense officials (i.e., presidential appointees, generals, admirals, etc.) through oral presentations and written reports. Develop firsthand knowledge of systems by attending test events and analyzing results. Work independently, and in small teams, to advocate for adequate testing of systems, ensuring that our warfighters are equipped with safe and effective systems for combat. Required qualifications PhD in Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Aerospace, Biological, Industrial, Systems), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Operations Research, or other relevant interdisciplinary programs. MS with 6+ years of relevant work or military experience. BS with 8+ years of relevant work or military experience. Experience with qualitative or quantitative data analysis. Strong written and oral communication skills, able to clearly explain technical topics to non-technical audiences. Availability to travel (approximately 25% of time). Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance. Successful completion of a background check required. Preferred qualifications Prior military, DoW acquisition, or test and evaluation experience. Live in or be willing to relocate to the Washington, D.C. region. Why work at IDA? Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement. Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL). Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications. Strong work‑life balance culture with an average 40‑hour work week and expectation of communication only during core business hours. Commitment to diversity in the workplace and a culture of active citizenship with data‑driven processes of continuous feedback. Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and the ability to choose your own projects. New facility located in Alexandria’s high‑tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping. Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro and DASH bus stops; employer contributes up to $340/month to commuter benefits. Benefits At IDA, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; a generous 10% contribution to a Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service; paid parental leave; 10 paid holidays; paid time off; and tuition reimbursement for professional development. Pay 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 $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. #J-18808-Ljbffr