Become an Operations Research Analyst with the Missile Defense Agency

Are you ready to apply your mathematical expertise to the defense of the nation? The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is currently seeking a talented Operations Research Analyst to join our team of experts. This position is a rare opportunity to influence the trajectory of ballistic missile defense systems through rigorous cost analysis and strategic planning. If you possess a sharp analytical mind and a drive for public service, this role offers an unparalleled career path within the Department of Defense.

Job Responsibilities

As an Operations Research Analyst at the NH-1515-4 broadband level, your responsibilities will be diverse and highly impactful:

Cost Estimation Leadership: Act as the primary authority for life-cycle cost estimates (LCCE) within your assigned program.
Strategic Guidance: Provide authoritative data-driven recommendations to program leadership to support resource allocation and acquisition strategies.
Methodological Development: Utilize advanced quantitative techniques, including linear and non-linear regression, to develop cost estimating relationships.
Data Management: Standardize the collection and reporting of cost and technical data across programs to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
Audit Support: Lead the response to GAO audits and Congressional Requests for Information (RFI) regarding program costs.

Requirements

To qualify for this high-level position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
Academic Background: A degree in operations research or at least 24 semester hours of math/statistics-related courses, including 3+ hours of calculus.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the NH-03/GS-13 equivalent level.
Documentation: A two-page (maximum) PDF resume that clearly outlines your experience and qualifications.
Security: Ability to pass a drug test and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.

Comparison Table: Why Work for the MDA?

Feature	Benefit to You
Mission Impact	Direct involvement in national defense technology.
Certification	Agency-supported DAWIA Acquisition Certification training.
Career Growth	Access to top-tier defense analytical networks.
Work Environment	Collaborative, mission-first, and highly technical.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $197,200 per year. Employees also benefit from a standard, robust federal package including comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans (FERS), and generous paid leave. Selected candidates may also be eligible for recruitment or relocation incentives.

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be disqualified immediately.
Be Specific: Ensure your experience in the five areas listed in the vacancy announcement is clearly demonstrated.
Follow Format: Ensure your PDF document adheres to the specified font and margin requirements to ensure it remains readable during the automated intake process.

Serving as an Operations Research Analyst at the MDA is not just a job—it is a mission. If you are prepared to lead complex analytical efforts that shape the future of our national defense, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date. Join us in protecting the United States and our allies from evolving global threats.

Why This Operations Research Analyst Job Matters

Join the Missile Defense Agency in an elite role where your analytical prowess directly protects the nation. We are seeking a mission-driven Operations Research Analyst to lead complex cost estimating initiatives for critical ballistic missile defense technologies.

Operations Research Analyst Job Overview

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is looking for a highly skilled Operations Research Analyst to serve as the primary cost-estimating subject matter expert. You will play a vital role in providing authoritative analysis that informs large-scale resource allocation, acquisition planning, and strategic decision-making for the Department of Defense. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to the nation's most sophisticated defense systems while working in a collaborative, high-impact environment at either our Dahlgren or Fort Belvoir, Virginia locations.

Requirements for Operations Research Analyst

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the NH-03/GS-13 level.
Must possess a degree in Operations Research, or at least 24 semester hours in math, statistics, or related quantitative fields (must include at least 3 hours of calculus).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages (PDF format).
Submission of academic transcripts.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Ability to complete DoD Acquisition Business/Cost Estimating certification within 48 months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications for Operations Research Analyst

Advanced coursework in probability and statistics.
Direct experience with life-cycle cost estimating (LCCE) for major weapon systems.
Proven track record in applying linear and non-linear regression techniques to develop cost estimating relationships (CERs).
Experience handling GAO audits and responding to Congressional inquiries.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Participation in the federal retirement system (FERS).
✓Generous paid leave and federal holiday schedule.
✓Opportunities for professional development and DAWIA certification.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.

💡 How to Apply Operations Research Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Operations Research Analyst Job

Prepare a concise two-page resume in PDF format adhering to specific font and margin requirements.
Obtain unofficial transcripts demonstrating your academic background in relevant quantitative coursework.
Log into your USAJOBS account to complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload your resume, transcripts, and any required eligibility documents (such as SF-50 or military spouse documentation).
Submit your application by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

The two-page limit for your resume is strictly enforced; entries exceeding this length are automatically disqualified.
Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in the five areas listed in the qualification summary.
If claiming veterans' preference or military spouse eligibility, ensure all required supporting documentation is uploaded correctly.
Review your transcript to ensure it clearly displays your name, institution, and completed quantitative coursework prior to submission.
Use standard, legible fonts such as Lato, Arial, or Calibri.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will serve as the principal cost-estimating expert for MDA programs, ensuring that life-cycle cost estimates are accurate, reliable, and compliant with DoD directives to support high-level decision-making.

Are there specific education requirements for this series?

Yes, you must have a degree in operations research or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, or science, with at least 3 hours in calculus.

Is telework available?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy.

What is the Acquisition Certification requirement?

The position requires DoD Acquisition Business and Cost Estimating certification at the Advanced level. If you are not certified upon hire, you have 48 months to achieve it.

Job from Missile Defense Agency

The Missile Defense Agency is a research, development, and acquisition organization dedicated to defending the United States, its deployed forces, and our allies against ballistic missile threats. Our mission is to develop, test, and field an integrated, layered defense system that operates in all phases of flight. Working at the MDA means joining a team of dedicated professionals committed to technological innovation and national security.