Advance Your Career as an Interdisciplinary Data Specialist with the Department of Defense
Are you ready to use your quantitative expertise to support the military community? The Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA) is hiring an Interdisciplinary Statistician, Economist, or Operations Research Analyst to join the Defense Personnel Analytics Center (DPAC). This is an exciting opportunity for professionals to bridge the gap between complex data and actionable policy that impacts service members globally.
Job Responsibilities
This role is designed to grow with the successful candidate, offering a progression from developmental assignments at the GS-7 level up to a senior subject-matter expert position at the GS-12 level. Your core duties will involve:
- Developing and managing housing and cost-of-living allowance programs (BAH, OHA, COLA).
- Conducting deep-dive statistical and economic research.
- Building user-focused analytical tools to extract insights from large datasets.
- Presenting and defending methodology and findings to senior DoD leadership.
- Mentoring junior team members as you advance to senior analyst status.
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive federal position, you must meet specific education and experience standards depending on your desired grade level. Whether you are an entry-level candidate or a seasoned subject-matter expert, you must provide thorough documentation.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Resume Limit | Strictly 2 pages or less |
| Documentation | Transcripts and SF-50 required |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain/maintain Secret clearance |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $57,736 to $133,142 per year, commensurate with your grade level and verified experience.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous paid time off. The position also supports telework, promoting a balanced professional and personal life.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your specialized experience in quantitative fields. Upload your files in PDF format, ensuring all margin and font requirements are met to avoid disqualification. Remember, the deadline is October 19, 2026.
This role is an excellent fit for data-driven professionals who want their work to have a tangible impact on the DoD community. With a clear path for advancement and a focus on mission-critical research, your expertise will be at the forefront of policy development. Ensure your application is complete, documented, and submitted on time to be considered for this prestigious career opportunity.
Why This Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist) Job Matters
Transform federal policy and support our service members through advanced data analytics—join the Defense Personnel Analytics Center in Alexandria, VA.
Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist) Job Overview
The Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA) is seeking a skilled professional for an interdisciplinary role serving as a Statistician, Economist, or Operations Research Analyst. This position plays a pivotal role within the Defense Personnel Analytics Center (DPAC), where the focus is on conducting comprehensive analyses that inform military workforce policies and support programs like Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Cost-of-Living Allowances (COLA). This is a developmental opportunity that scales from entry-level analytical support to senior-level program management.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Submission of a concise, two-page (maximum) resume in PDF format.
- Academic transcripts confirming qualifying degrees and coursework.
- Proof of relevant experience for the chosen occupational series (0110, 1515, or 1530).
- Current or former federal employees must provide their most recent SF-50.
- Completion of the online application questionnaire by the closing date.
- Ability to meet suitability and security requirements for a Secret-level clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist)
- Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Economics, Statistics, or Operations Research.
- Proficiency in statistical programming languages such as R, Python, or SQL.
- Proven experience in managing the full lifecycle of complex analytical projects.
- Demonstrated ability to present technical findings to senior leadership and non-technical stakeholders.
- Experience with housing or cost-of-living policy analysis.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual programs.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Statistician (Economics )/Economist/Operations Research Analyst (Data Scientist) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Gather all necessary transcripts and supporting documentation (SF-50, DD214).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; exceed this, and your application will be disqualified.
- Use a standard, readable font like Lato or Arial.
- Ensure your transcript clearly indicates all required credit hours for the specific series (e.g., 21 hours for Economics).
- Be specific about your role, including hours worked per week and exact dates, to prove your specialized experience.
- Double-check your eligibility and ensure you have uploaded all required proof documents before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Any resume exceeding the two-page limit will result in immediate disqualification from consideration.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated for a Secret security clearance and requires a background investigation.
What if I do not have my official transcripts yet?
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process as long as they contain your name, school, date, and degree awarded.
What happens if my resume is three pages?
Your application will be deemed ineligible and removed from consideration. Stick to the two-page limit.
Is this role eligible for remote work?
The position is telework-eligible, though not fully remote. It is based in Alexandria, Virginia.
Job from Defense Human Resources Activity
The Defense Personnel Analytics Center (DPAC) serves as a vital analytical arm within the Department of Defense. DPAC provides rigorous scientific assessments and data-driven insights to help the military services make informed decisions regarding workforce composition and policy changes. By joining this team, you become part of an organization dedicated to improving the lives of DoD personnel through sophisticated data analytics and research.