Advance Your Career: Research Opportunities at the Defense Personnel Analytics Center
In the realm of defense policy, data is the foundation of every decision. The Defense Personnel Analytics Center (DPAC) is currently offering an exceptional opportunity for an Interdisciplinary researcher to join their team in Alexandria, Virginia. If you are passionate about applying statistical rigor to improve the lives and readiness of the Total Force, this role offers a platform to influence national policy.
Job Responsibilities
The responsibilities vary by grade level, but both GS-12 and GS-13 incumbents play a vital role in the research lifecycle.
GS-12 vs. GS-13 Responsibilities
| Feature | GS-12 | GS-13 |
|---|---|---|
| Project Scope | 1-2 concurrent projects | 3+ concurrent projects |
| Supervision Level | General supervision | Minimal guidance; independent |
| Stakeholder Role | Working-level liaison | Primary contact/lead |
| Analytical Focus | Routine/established protocols | Novel/non-standard problems |
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must hold a degree in a relevant field (0101, 0180, or 1530 series) and possess graduate-level statistical training. You must demonstrate specialized experience in managing survey instruments and focus groups.
- Documentation: Failure to submit transcripts will result in an ineligible rating.
- Resume Guidelines: The most critical requirement is the two-page resume limit. Any resume exceeding two pages, or failing to meet formatting requirements, will be rejected.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $102,415 to $158,322 per year. Federal employees are entitled to a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- Generous vacation and sick leave accrual
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, review your resume against the job duties listed. Quantify your experience with survey instruments and statistical software. Ensure all documents, especially your transcripts and SF-50 (if applicable), are saved as PDFs to preserve the layout.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to high-level defense research. If you are an experienced researcher looking to transition into a career where your analysis matters, apply before the closing date to be considered for this vital team.
Why This Interdisciplinary Job Matters
Shape the future of military policy through evidence-based research and high-impact personnel analytics.
Interdisciplinary Job Overview
The Defense Personnel Analytics Center (DPAC) is seeking a skilled researcher to join their team in Alexandria, VA. This interdisciplinary role focuses on executing critical research projects covering military personnel domains such as retention, quality of life, and force readiness. You will work within a collaborative team environment to design, administer, and analyze complex datasets, providing actionable insights to senior leadership.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must meet specific educational requirements for the 0101, 0180, or 1530 series
- Nine semester hours of graduate-level statistics coursework
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 (for GS-12) or GS-12 (for GS-13) grade level
- Must submit a resume limited to two pages (PDF format)
- Must provide transcripts for all relevant education
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary
- Advanced experience in researching military personnel topics such as readiness, sexual assault prevention, and retention
- Expertise in multivariate statistical techniques including structural equation modeling (SEM) and factor analysis
- Strong verbal and written communication skills for briefings with non-technical audiences
- Proven ability to manage multiple simultaneous research projects
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement plans including TSP (401k-style)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave programs
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- ✓Potential for telework flexibility
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a two-page resume adhering to all font and margin requirements
- Gather and scan unofficial transcripts and required federal documentation (e.g., SF-50)
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link
- Submit your entire application package by the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show your name, institution, and credits earned
- Clearly explain how your previous work matches the required statistical and social science competencies
- Save all documents as PDFs to ensure proper formatting during submission
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research position?
The role involves designing and conducting surveys and studies on sensitive military topics, including career progression, retention, and force fitness.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically removed from consideration.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.
Is there a possibility for telework?
Yes, this position is telework-eligible.
Does this position require travel?
Occasional travel may be required, coded as 1 (up to 25%).
Job from Defense Human Resources Activity
The Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA) and its sub-agency, the DPAC, are committed to evidence-based management within the Department of Defense. By synthesizing complex analytical findings, the agency ensures that leadership has the data required to navigate issues ranging from career progression to suicide prevention. Working here means your research directly impacts the readiness and well-being of military members and their families.