Space Systems Research Analyst

Space Systems Research Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation

Apply your analytical skills to support the Department of War’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.

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.

• 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.

• Candidate must meet one of the following education/experience combinations:
  • PhD in a STEM field (such as Physics, Space Science, Chemistry, Quantitative Biology, Applied Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Operations Research), or any other data-intensive research field; or
  • Master’s 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.

• Knowledgeable in space domain awareness, space control, missile warning and tracking, satellite communications, optical and infrared sensing, GPS, spacecraft survivability, orbital dynamics, aerospace engineering, or implementation of modeling and simulation tools.
• Experience with statistical software or programming languages used in research, engineering, testing, and analysis automation (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).
• Prior military, Department of War acquisition, and/or test and evaluation experience.

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.  to view our vision, mission, and guiding principles.

• 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;
  • 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…