Become an Operations Research Analyst for the Department of the Navy
Are you ready to apply your mathematical expertise to the highest levels of national security? The Immediate Office of the Chief of Naval Operations is currently seeking a highly skilled Operations Research Analyst to join their team at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. This position is a rare opportunity to influence naval strategy and resource allocation through rigorous data analysis and sophisticated modeling.
Job Responsibilities
As an Operations Research Analyst (GS-13), you will:
- Analyze Naval Portfolios: Oversee and coordinate the Sea Power assessments portfolio.
- Support Strategic Planning: Monitor investments during the annual Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) cycle.
- Conduct Studies: Utilize modeling, simulations, and regression analysis to evaluate hypotheses and improve naval operations.
- Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME): Provide authoritative recommendations on mission areas to leadership.
- Collaborate: Coordinate across analytic disciplines to resolve complex and controversial operational issues.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several specific qualifications:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Security: Ability to obtain and maintain an SCI-level clearance.
- Education: A degree in operations research or at least 24 semester hours in quantitative fields (including at least 3 hours of calculus).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
- Health: Ability to pass a mandatory drug test.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
| Education | Min. 24 Semester Hours (Math/Stats/Science) |
| Calculus | Minimum 3 Credits Required |
| Clearance | Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) |
| Resume Limit | 2 Pages Maximum |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales and location-based adjustments for the National Capital Region.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Navy enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Federal health and life insurance options.
- A robust federal retirement plan (FERS).
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- Flexible work arrangements including telework eligibility.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: Ensure your resume includes employer names, start/end dates (Mo/Yr), and hours worked per week.
- Check Your Math Credits: Before applying, confirm your transcripts show 24+ relevant credit hours.
- Stay Within the Limit: Edit your resume to ensure it does not exceed the two-page constraint.
- Document Everything: Attach all required SF-50 forms and transcripts at the time of submission.
Serving as an Operations Research Analyst for the Navy is a challenging and rewarding career path. If you possess the quantitative skills to drive decision-making for national defense, we encourage you to apply by the November deadline.
Why This Operations Research Analyst Job Matters
Shape the future of naval strategy and power projection as an Operations Research Analyst at the Pentagon.
Operations Research Analyst Job Overview
The Immediate Office of the Chief of Naval Operations is seeking a highly analytical professional to serve as an Operations Research Analyst in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, you will perform critical assessments of operational concepts and support the Department of the Navy's annual planning and programming cycle, directly influencing strategic resource allocation and readiness.
Requirements for Operations Research Analyst
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
- Completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in operations research, or a related field with at least 24 semester hours in operations research, mathematics, statistics, or scientific disciplines including at least 3 hours of calculus.
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Ability to pass an initial drug screening and subsequent random drug testing.
- Must submit a comprehensive resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing relevant professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Operations Research Analyst
- Advanced knowledge of the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) system.
- Experience with complex modeling, simulation, and statistical analysis tools.
- Understanding of Joint Staff and Department of Defense analytic organizations.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex, controversial analytical findings to leadership.
- Strong background in naval operations, strategy, and doctrine.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement System
- ✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Professional Development and Training
- ✓Telework Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Operations Research Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Operations Research Analyst Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages, highlighting relevant accomplishments and technical skills.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and applicable SF-50 forms for current/former federal employees.
- Submit your application package online before the closing date of November 5, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information like salary, grade, and hours per week is clearly formatted.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly shows one year of experience at the GS-12 level if you are a federal employee.
- Ensure your transcripts verify the mandatory 24 semester hours in math/science, including at least 3 hours of calculus.
- Redact sensitive personal information like your SSN from supporting documents before uploading.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this position?
You will be responsible for evaluating Sea Power assessment portfolios, conducting operational concept studies, and supporting the Department of the Navy's POM cycle through data modeling and analysis.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance due to the nature of the strategic naval information you will handle.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The announcement strictly mandates that resumes must be no more than two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit may not be considered.
What is the closing date for this application?
Applications must be submitted by November 5, 2026.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation expenses are not explicitly offered, though recruitment incentives may be available depending on funding and organizational policy.
Job from Immediate Office Of The Chief Of Naval Operations
The Department of the Navy provides a workplace where purpose meets patriotism. By joining the civilian workforce at the Pentagon, you become part of a global team dedicated to safeguarding freedoms and supporting the brave men and women of the military. The organization values innovation and provides continuous professional development to help employees excel in their specific disciplines.