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.

What qualifications and skill-sets do you need?

Required:

• We value diverse perspectives and expertise and will consider applicants from a wide array of disciplines, including: Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Aerospace, Biological, Industrial, Systems Engineering), Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Operations Research, or other relevant interdisciplinary programs.
• PhD in any of the disciplines listed above
• MS in any of the disciplines listed above with 6+ years of relevant work or military experience
• BS in any of the disciplines listed above with 8+ years of relevant work or military experience
• Experience with qualitative or quantitative data analysis.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to clearly explain technical topics to non-technical audiences.
• Availability to travel (approx. 25% time).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.

Preferred:

• Prior-Military, DoW acquisition, or test and evaluation experience is valued but not required.
• 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;
• A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
• 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.
• Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
• A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

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.

Benefits

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 .

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.

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.

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 View email address on workus.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.