Senior Operations Research Analyst: Shaping the Future of Defense Logistics
The Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Operations Research Analyst to join their team at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. This GS-15 position represents a rare opportunity to serve as a primary subject matter expert for munitions modeling, simulation, and strategic policy advice for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Analyst, your day-to-day will involve high-stakes responsibilities, including:
- Serving as a technical advisor for munitions-oriented wargaming and policy.
- Applying advanced statistical methods to resolve complex logistics challenges.
- Representing the J-4 on high-level departmental panels.
- Providing actionable data-driven recommendations to the Director for Logistics.
Requirements
To be considered for this elite role, applicants must demonstrate:
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level.
- Expertise in quantitative techniques, systems analysis, and scientific inquiry.
- Possession of a relevant degree or specific semester hours in mathematics and statistics (including calculus).
- Ability to clear Top Secret investigative requirements.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement Type |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-14 level |
| Education | Relevant Degree + 24+ Semester hours |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret |
| Drug Test | Required |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-15 level, with a competitive annual salary range of $169,279 to $197,200, commensurate with your qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Defense enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous retirement plans, and the flexibility of telework options within a collaborative professional environment.
Application Tips
- Adhere to the Page Limit: The two-page resume rule is strictly enforced. Any submission longer than this will be automatically rejected.
- Format Matters: Save your documents as PDF to prevent font or margin issues.
- Detail Your Work: Ensure your resume explicitly states hours worked per week and specific duties performed.
This role is ideal for an accomplished analyst ready to transition their quantitative expertise to the highest levels of national policy. If you have the background and the drive, apply before the July 31st deadline to take your next career step at the Pentagon.
Why This Operations Research Analyst Job Matters
Shape national defense strategy as a Senior Operations Research Analyst for the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon.
Operations Research Analyst Job Overview
The Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is seeking a high-level Operations Research Analyst to provide expert technical guidance on munitions modeling, wargaming, and defense policy. Based at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, this GS-15 role is pivotal in advising the J-4 leadership and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on complex logistics and strategic readiness initiatives.
Requirements for Operations Research Analyst
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent.
- Proven expertise in applying mathematics, statistics, and operations research to resolve complex munitions and logistics problems.
- Demonstrated ability to use advanced mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and linear programming for risk quantification.
- Must meet the basic educational requirement: Degree in Operations Research or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, economics, or related fields (must include at least 3 hours of calculus).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass an initial drug screening and comply with random testing requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Operations Research Analyst
- Recognized authority within the defense analytical community.
- Extensive experience in leading ad-hoc sub-working groups for complex data analysis.
- Strong background in providing high-level policy advice to executive military or government leadership.
- Proven track record in wargaming and simulation methods.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Eligibility for telework options.
- ✓Opportunity to influence national-level defense policy.
- ✓Career growth within a premier government organization.
💡 How to Apply Operations Research Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Operations Research Analyst Job
- Prepare a concise, two-page (maximum) resume meeting specific formatting requirements.
- Compile all required academic transcripts confirming relevant coursework.
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire through the official portal.
- Submit all supporting documentation, including SF-50 (if applicable) and veteran’s preference documents.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly follow the two-page limit for your resume; excessive length will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume includes dates, hours worked per week, and detailed duties.
- Use a standard, readable font like Lato or Arial.
- Save all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
- Submit early to allow time for the system's virus scan and file processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to substitute for the required experience?
No, at the GS-15 level, you must possess the required specialized professional experience; educational substitution is not permitted for this grade.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Top Secret clearance due to the sensitivity of the information handled.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
The system is strictly enforced; resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically removed from consideration.
Job from Organization Of The Joint Chiefs Of Staff
The J-4 (Logistics) Directorate is the backbone of the joint force. It leads the logistics enterprise, ensures the readiness of our military, and provides critical advice that maximizes the freedom of action for joint force commanders. Joining the J-4 means stepping into a mission-critical environment where your analytical skills will directly influence the security of our nation.