Cost Analyst

Systems Planning & Analysis; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning & Analysis is seeking a candidate specializing in cost estimation for government programs. You will lead various cost estimating products, engage with engineers and management, and ensure high-quality output for our clients.

This role requires over 15 years of relevant experience and a Master’s degree in a related field. Proficiency in MS Excel and analytical tools is essential.

Qualifications

• Must meet eligibility requirements for a U.S. Public Trust clearance.
• 15+ years of experience in government program cost estimation roles.
• Strong analytical background in gathering and interpreting complex data.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary point-of-contact for cost-related activities on assigned programs.
• Lead development of Lifecycle Cost Estimates (LCCE’s) and Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCE’s).
• Participate in technical working groups and manage customer relationships.

Skills

Cost estimation

Data analysis

MS Excel proficiency

Communication skills

Risk analysis

Education

Master's degree in Economics, Mathematics, Operational Research, Engineering, Business, or Finance

Tools

Crystal Ball

@Risk

SEER-SEM

ACEIT

Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high‑impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, SPA is known for continuous innovation for government customers in the U.S. and abroad. The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID offers technical, programmatic, and analytical support to customers with missions in national security, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). CIG staff collaborate closely with clients to provide high‑quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet demanding government standards and timelines.

Responsibilities

The candidate will serve as primary point‑of‑contact for cost‑related activities on assigned programs. Lead and develop a variety of cost estimating products such as Lifecycle Cost Estimates (LCCE’s), Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCE’s), Alternative Analysis, Cost/Benefit Analysis, and business case support. Perform duties including data collection, model development, database management, data normalization, risk analysis, sensitivity analysis, net present value acquisition/contract evaluation, and cost/financial performance monitoring. Actively participate in technical working groups with engineering, budget, schedule, and acquisition functional team members, provide mentoring and training guidance to team members, and manage customer relationships and expectations.

Qualifications

• Must meet eligibility requirements for a U.S. Public Trust clearance
• 15+ years of experience in government program cost estimation roles
• Strong proficiency in MS Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, and other Microsoft products
• Strong analytical background in gathering and interpreting complex amounts of data and excellent communication skills
• Experience working on Federal Aviation Administration programs
• Analytical involvement with government acquisition process
• Proficiency in cost estimating and risk tools such as Crystal Ball, @Risk, SEER‑SEM, and/or ACEIT
• Master’s degree required; focus in Economics, Mathematics, Operational Research, Engineering, Business, or Finance preferred
• Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA®)