Become a Key Strategic Asset: Operations Research Analyst at DSCA
Are you an analytical professional looking to apply your mathematical expertise to critical national security missions? The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) is currently hiring an Operations Research Analyst (GS-1515-13). This position offers a unique opportunity to influence how the Department of Defense builds capacity among foreign partners by focusing on internal human capital strategy.
Job Responsibilities
As an Operations Research Analyst, your work will be foundational. You will:
- Design and implement complex econometric and statistical models.
- Analyze current workforce trends, including demographics and vacancy projections.
- Conduct cost-benefit and decision analysis to guide management.
- Synthesize high-level data into actionable reports for agency leadership.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Skill Category | Requirement Level | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Analysis | Advanced | Modeling & Statistics |
| Forecasting | Expert | Human Capital Projection |
| Communication | Professional | Executive Summaries |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 level role, candidates must possess:
- One year of specialized GS-12 experience in human capital forecasting or related analytical modeling.
- A degree in operations research or at least 24 semester hours in math/science disciplines.
- Proficiency in calculus.
- Ability to secure a Secret clearance.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the base compensation, federal employees enjoy:
- Comprehensive health and insurance plans.
- The Thrift Savings Plan (a 401k-style retirement system).
- Flexibility through telework programs.
- Accrued vacation and sick leave.
Application Tips
The federal application process is highly rigorous. To ensure your application makes it through the initial screening:
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit are automatically discarded.
- Format Matters: Save all documents as PDFs with clear, professional formatting.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly state your hours worked and the duration of your relevant professional experience.
The role of an Operations Research Analyst at DSCA is more than just a job; it is a position of influence. By applying your talent for data to the future of our security workforce, you help ensure that the U.S. is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Apply today to begin your federal career journey.
Why This Operations Research Analyst Job Matters
Join the Defense Security Cooperation Agency as an Operations Research Analyst and use data-driven insights to shape the future of our national security workforce.
Operations Research Analyst Job Overview
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) is seeking a highly skilled Operations Research Analyst to join their team in Arlington, Virginia. In this vital role, you will leverage advanced mathematical, statistical, and econometric modeling to forecast human capital requirements for the security cooperation enterprise. Your analysis will directly inform decision-making, helping the agency train, equip, and advise foreign partners to meet complex global security challenges.
Requirements for Operations Research Analyst
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Expertise in designing, developing, and implementing mathematical, statistical, and econometric models.
- Degree in operations research or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, or science-based courses requiring substantial college-level math.
- Minimum of 3 semester hours in calculus.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Successful completion of initial and random drug screenings.
Preferred Qualifications for Operations Research Analyst
- Experience with human capital forecasting and demographic analysis.
- Proficiency in cost-benefit, decision, and graphical analysis tools.
- Experience synthesizing complex technical reports into summary-level management documents.
- Knowledge of DoD security cooperation policies and workforce certification requirements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- ✓Telework eligibility for improved work-life balance.
💡 How to Apply Operations Research Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Operations Research Analyst Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure all educational transcripts and eligibility documents (SF-50, DD-214) are uploaded in PDF format.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided USAJobs link.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must not exceed two pages; excess length will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Use standard fonts such as Lato, Arial, or Calibri with at least 0.5-inch margins.
- Clearly document your work hours per week and specific dates of employment.
- Verify your eligibility for special hiring authorities, such as veteran or military spouse preference.
- Save all documents as PDFs to ensure proper formatting and readability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
The analyst focuses on building mathematical and statistical models to forecast the future needs and composition of the DSCA security cooperation workforce.
Can I use graduate education to qualify for the GS-13 grade?
No, for this specific grade level, specialized experience is mandatory and cannot be substituted solely by education.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as a noncritical-sensitive/moderate-risk role.
Job from Defense Security Cooperation Agency
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) serves a vital role in U.S. foreign policy. By managing programs that train, equip, and advise foreign security forces, DSCA acts as the engine behind the U.S. security cooperation enterprise. Working here means contributing directly to global stability and strengthening international partnerships.