Modeling & Simulation Analyst (Wargaming & AFSIM Exposure)

University of Dayton Research Institute; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Dayton Research Institute is seeking a Modeling & Simulation Analyst in Dayton, Ohio. This role involves supporting live modeling and simulation activities, developing scenario data, and analyzing simulation outputs relevant to defense research. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field and three years of analytical experience. Proficiency in tools such as AFSIM and MATLAB, as well as an Active Secret clearance, are required. The position promotes a collaborative environment and encourages independent work.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of experience in analytical, technical, or simulation-support environments.
• Experience with structured data and defined technical workflows.
• Active Secret clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare scenario data for modeling, simulation, and wargaming activities.
• Support execution of simulation runs and experimental events.
• Analyze simulation outputs to support research and operational insights.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Technical communication

Self-motivated

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, operations research, analytics, or related STEM field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

AFSIM

STK

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Position Summary

Shape the simulations that inform tomorrow’s Air Force decisions.

The Modeling & Simulation Analyst supports AFRL-driven modeling, simulation, and wargaming activities, contributing to both the preparation and execution of simulation events. This role includes developing scenario data, supporting simulation runs, and assisting in analysis of results used in defense research.

The position operates at the intersection of technical analysis and simulation integration. Candidates will work with structured simulation workflows, coordinate across contributors, and gain exposure to simulation environments including AFSIM. Over time, there are opportunities to expand into more advanced modeling and simulation responsibilities based on performance and project needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare scenario data for modeling, simulation, and wargaming activities
• Support execution of simulation runs and experimental events
• Maintain and manage configuration-controlled simulation artifacts
• Contribute to implementation and refinement of scenario logic and inputs
• Analyze simulation outputs to support research and operational insights
• Coordinate with engineers, analysts, and stakeholders to ensure simulation readiness
• Support structured workflows and documentation required for simulation-based efforts

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, operations research, analytics, or related STEM field
• Three or more years of experience in analytical, technical, or simulation-support environments
• Experience working with structured data and defined technical workflows
• Strong problem‑solving and attention to detail
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly in writing
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Self‑motivated with ability to work independently and in team settings
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen
• Active Secret clearance required

Preferred Qualifications

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

• Exposure to modeling & simulation, wargaming, or operational analysis
• Familiarity with tools such as AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, or Python
• Experience supporting DoD or defense‑related technical efforts
• Experience working in multidisciplinary technical environmentsActive clearance with eligibility for Top Secret

Special Instructions To Applicants

To apply please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Closing Statement

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.