Advance National Security: Interdisciplinary Engineer & Operations Research Analyst Opportunity at MDA

Are you looking to bridge the gap between complex engineering and strategic decision-making? The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is offering a high-stakes opportunity for a motivated professional to join our team at Redstone Arsenal in Alabama. This role is designed for experts in General Engineering or Operations Research who are ready to make a tangible impact on the future of our nation’s ballistic missile defense capabilities.

About the Missile Defense Agency

The Missile Defense Agency, a branch of the Department of Defense, is tasked with the monumental mission of developing, testing, and fielding an integrated, layered Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). Our goal is to defend the United States, our deployed forces, and our allies against all ranges of enemy ballistic missiles throughout all phases of flight. Joining the MDA means working with the world’s most advanced thinkers on some of the most significant technological achievements in history.

Position Overview

As an Interdisciplinary General Engineer or Operations Research Analyst, you will serve as a senior contributor within the Director of Test organization. Your work will directly inform acquisition decisions and ensure our test programs are effective, supported, and ready for deployment.

Key Responsibilities

Test Strategy & Execution: Lead and coordinate baseline test programs for the Missile Defense System.
Analytical Support: Provide technical input to acquisition processes by assessing the adequacy of test plans and evaluation data.
Strategic Coordination: Liaise between engineering divisions and the Integrated Program Office to streamline test schedules and venue suitability.
Continuous Improvement: Develop new initiatives to refine the integration and execution of ground-based testing protocols.

Comparison: General Engineer vs. Operations Research Analyst

Feature	General Engineer	Operations Research Analyst
Primary Focus	Hardware/System Mechanics	Quantitative Modeling/Analysis
Education Req	Engineering (ABET accredited)	OR/Math/Stats/Probability
Key Skills	Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics	Optimization, Queuing Theory

Requirements

To be considered for this NH-04 broadband level position, you must:

Possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
Demonstrate competence in modifying test plans, executing cyber/flight tests, or analyzing complex data.
Meet the specific educational requirements for either the 0801 or 1515 job series.
Adhere to strict documentation guidelines (2-page resume limit).

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $130,987 to $197,200 per year. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive benefits package afforded to federal employees, including:

Health and Life insurance.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) retirement options.
Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Professional development and certification support.

Working for the MDA is more than a job—it is a service to our country. If you possess the technical rigor and strategic vision required to ensure our defense systems remain second to none, we invite you to apply. Please ensure your documentation is complete and follows all specified formatting guidelines to ensure your application is reviewed.

Why This Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst) Job Matters

Join the forefront of national defense as an Interdisciplinary Engineer or Operations Research Analyst at the Missile Defense Agency, where your technical expertise directly protects our nation.

Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst) Job Overview

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is seeking a highly motivated professional to join the Director of Test organization at Redstone Arsenal. In this role, you will play a critical part in the development and fielding of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). You will provide essential technical input to acquisition decisions, influence testing strategies, and ensure seamless integration of advanced weapon systems, all while working with some of the brightest minds in the aerospace and defense sectors.

Requirements for Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
Submission of a professional resume, strictly limited to two pages.
Professional academic transcripts demonstrating required coursework.
One year of specialized experience at the NH-03/GS-13 equivalent level.
Completion of required drug screening and ongoing random testing.
Completion of DAWIA Acquisition Practitioner certification in Test and Evaluation within 60 months of hire.
Registration with the Selective Service System for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst)

Strong background in complex weapon system test execution.
Proficiency in analyzing test data and modifying test plans for flight or ground operations.
Experience coordinating cross-organizational integration efforts.
Expertise in developing test concepts, policies, and validation standards.
Academic background in Engineering or Operations Research (with specific coursework in calculus and quantitative analysis).

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary with promotion potential.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
✓Federal Retirement System including Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
✓Paid annual and sick leave.
✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options.
✓Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Interdisciplinary (General Engineer/Operation Research Analyst) Job

Log in to your USAJOBS profile.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare your 2-page PDF resume ensuring adherence to font/margin requirements.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload all required supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
Ensure your resume includes dates of employment, hours worked per week, and detailed descriptions of duties.
Use standard, readable fonts like Lato, Arial, or Calibri.
Double-check your transcripts to ensure they include your name, the school's name, and all completed coursework.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The incumbent supports the Missile Defense Agency by evaluating test results, contributing to acquisition decisions, and coordinating complex test programs for the ballistic missile defense system.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a high-level Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, you will be disqualified if your resume exceeds two pages. All formatting requirements, including font and margin sizes, must be strictly followed.