Principal Operations Research Analyst (SME)

Job Summary:

The Principal Operations Research Analyst (SME) – Wargaming & LVC serves as the chief analyst for major wargaming efforts (e.g., GLOMO/CS, LDLW, FG, GE) in a Live–Virtual–Constructive (LVC) environment. In this senior role, you will lead enterprise-level OR strategy, design and execute complex experiments, develop analytical frameworks for wargames and exercises, and mentor a team of analysts supporting a high-visibility government customer.

You will work closely with government stakeholders, operators, and cross-functional technical teams to deliver rigorous, repeatable, and defensible analysis that informs operational plans, capability development, and strategic decision-making.

*This position is contingent upon contract award*

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as the chief operations research analyst for designated wargames and LVC events, ensuring analytical rigor from problem framing through final reporting.
• Lead enterprise OR strategy efforts, translating sponsor objectives and PWS requirements into structured analytical questions, models, and study plans.
• Design and oversee experimental methodologies for wargames, exercises, and simulations, including treatment/control design, measures of performance/effectiveness, and data collection plans.
• Develop, implement, and validate quantitative and qualitative models to assess concepts of operations, force design options, and operational risk.
• Direct the analysis of wargame and exercise data; synthesize findings into clear, actionable insights and recommendations for senior decision-makers.
• Prepare and deliver briefings, white papers, and technical reports to senior military and civilian leaders.
• Mentor and coach a team of OR analysts and data scientists; provide technical quality control and professional development guidance.
• Collaborate with operations, intelligence, and technical SMEs to ensure models, assumptions, and scenarios reflect current doctrine, capabilities, and threat environments.
• Coordinate closely with government leads to align analytical efforts with the Performance Work Statement (PWS), schedule, and deliverable requirements.
• Support proposal, capture, and growth activities by contributing OR subject matter expertise and wargaming best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support mission requirements.

Job Requirements (Education/Skills/Experience):

• Active Secret clearance; eligibility for Top Secret preferred. (U.S. citizenship required due to government contract requirements.)
• 12+ years of progressively responsible experience in operations research, data science, or a closely related analytical discipline, including significant experience supporting DoD or other U.S. government customers.
• PhD in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related field; or a Master’s degree in one of these fields with 15+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex OR studies or campaigns involving wargames, exercises, or simulations (e.g., LVC environments).
• Proven expertise in experimental design, statistical analysis, and model development for operational or strategic-level problems.
• Experience advising senior leaders and stakeholders, including developing and presenting concise, decision-focused findings and recommendations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a team of analysts, manage multiple concurrent efforts, and ensure on-time, high-quality deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications

• INFORMS Certified Analytics Professional (CAP).
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent project/program management certification.
• Experience with Department of Defense wargaming constructs, campaign-level analysis, or major exercise series.
• Familiarity with LVC simulation environments, wargame design tools, and related analytical software.
• Experience aligning analytical work to government Performance Work Statements (PWS) and reporting requirements.
• Prior experience supporting Air Force, joint, or combatant command–level analysis is highly desirable.

Diné Development Corporation (DDC) is a Navajo Nation owned family of companies that delivers IT, professional, and environmental solutions to advance the missions of federal, state, and tribal government agencies. As thought leaders and innovators, our team of specialists build client-centric solutions that solve critical challenges faced by defense, civilian, and healthcare organizations. Employing a mission-focused approach, we deliver value that not only enhances current operations, but also drives future change. Closely aligned with this approach is our commitment to advancing the Navajo Nation and its People. Through economic development and community empowerment, we elevate the Navajo Nation to provide lasting impact and sustainable growth for future generations. DDC’s ability to unite legacy-inspired technologies, industry best practices, and proven methodologies has contributed to our success for twenty years.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation, or any other basis prohibited by law. We participate in E-Verify.