Defense Systems T&E Analyst: Strategic Impact

Institute For Defense Analyses, Inc.; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 113,000 - 277,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is seeking an experienced Research Analyst to join the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D). This role focuses on rigorous analyses of complex military systems to inform Department of War (DoW) acquisition and operational decisions.

You will plan, analyze, and report on assessments across domains such as multi-domain autonomy, contested logistics, space systems, and C2.

Qualifications

• Domain knowledge: strong understanding of DoW operations, acquisition lifecycle or test and evaluation.
• Education: Ph.D. in a quantitative field, or Master’s with 6+ years relevant experience.
• Technical experience: demonstrated experience in military systems analysis.
• Excellent technical communication skills and ability to work in small, high-performing research teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.
• Criminal background check completion.
• Domestic or international travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute Test and Evaluation (T&E) frameworks to assess systems performance.
• Conduct technical analyses of systems’ effectiveness, suitability, survivability.
• Utilize data analytics and visualization to translate complex technical datasets into actionable insights.
• Produce high-impact reports and briefings for technical and non-technical audiences, including senior DoW leadership.

Skills

DoD knowledge

Data analysis

Technical communication

Security clearance

Travel readiness

Education

PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Python

Job description

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is seeking an experienced Research Analyst to join the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D). This role focuses on rigorous analyses of complex military systems to inform Department of War (DoW) acquisition and operational decisions.

You will plan, analyze, and report on assessments across domains such as multi-domain autonomy, contested logistics, space systems, and C2.