Section Supervisor - Mission Engineering and Analysis Section

Description

We are seeking a collaborative and forward-looking analytic leader to serve as Section Supervisor for the Mission Engineering & Analysis section within the Advanced Mission Modeling and AI Group (JAM) of the National Security Analysis Department (NSAD). This section focuses on the integration of systems into the most effective mission-level solutions to address specific operational challenges.

The Section Supervisor will oversee and develop analysts who conduct operational analyses leveraging modeling, simulation, and other analytic techniques for primarily single-mission, single-domain problem sets. The role integrates traditional modeling and simulation with creative, forward-thinking solutions and requires close collaboration across other NSAD and enterprise teams.

The Section Supervisor will play a critical role in advancing analytic approaches to mission engineering and analysis, ensuring the analytic approaches are rigorous, operationally grounded, and relevant.

• Develop and retain a multidisciplinary team of analysts conducting mission-focused analyses leveraging modeling, simulation, and related analytic methods.
• Collaborate with other NSAD teams on the development of future scenarios and strategic assessments that inform senior decision-makers.
• Ensure the timeliness and quality of the analysts' work— to include their analytic approach, their interactions with colleagues, sponsors, and project team members, and their written and presentation products.
• Mentor and coach section members; work with the analysts individually and collectively to further develop their skills and grow the capability and capacity of the section.
• Serve as a technical contributor on selected efforts, leading by example in analytic rigor, integration, and communication.
• Assist higher‑level managers and mission area partners with strategic planning, development of new analytic opportunities, and sponsor engagement.
• Support staff and task planning, interviewing and hiring, and performance coaching throughout the year.

• Have a Master’s degree (or higher) in a relevant field such as operations research, computer science, engineering, physical sciences, or a related discipline.
• Have experience conducting or leading national security analyses, particularly those involving mission-level modeling.
• Have project leadership experience for an analysis team from formulation to completion of a direct task – this should include determination of analytical approach, team building, sponsor engagements and conveying analytical results.
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience briefing senior sponsors and stakeholders.
• Have demonstrated collaboration skills and sound judgment in complex, ambiguous analytic environments.
• Are willing and able to travel to the Pentagon on an occasional basis.
• Hold an active Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI‑level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

• Have a Ph.D. (or equivalent) in a relevant analytic or technical discipline.
• Have prior supervisory experience or demonstrated experience leading or mentoring multidisciplinary analytic teams.
• Have experience advancing data‑driven or M&S‑related analytic approaches.
• Have an active TS/SCI clearance.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

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