Operations Research Analyst

Air Force Civilian Service; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 76,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Force Civilian Service seeks an Operations Research Analyst (NH-1515-03) near Albuquerque, NM, to assess and manage risk in nuclear certification processes for Air Force weapons systems. Responsibilities include risk analysis, cross-department collaboration, and leadership in risk-management initiatives.

Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship, ability to obtain a Top-Secret clearance, and DAWIA-aligned qualifications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field required or equivalent.
• Experience in risk management roles or related field preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential risks that may affect the organization.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies and protocols.
• Conduct risk analysis and report findings to senior management.
• Collaborate with departments to integrate risk management into operations.
• Monitor and review risk management policies and procedures.
• Lead risk assessment workshops and training sessions for staff.
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory bodies for compliance.
• Prepare and present detailed risk reports to stakeholders.

Skills

Risk assessment

Risk management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Technical proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

Risk management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Come be a part of something big! Smart Minds, Cool Jobs and Awesome Rewards! Fueled by innovation, talent and ambition, the Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is seeking civilian professionals prepared to deploy war-winning capabilities on behalf of the United States Air Force. OPENS: 9 September 2026 CLOSES: 30 September 2026 The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC) is currently seeking a full-time Operations Research Analyst 009603381M to work in the Surety and Certification Division, Nuclear Technology and Integration Directorate (NT) at Kirtland Air Force Base near Albuquerque, New Mexico. Value of Position (VoP): NH-1515-03 (83) which has a typical 2026 salary range of $76,463 - $118,204 (basic salary without locality included). Locality for Albuquerque-Santa Fe area is 18.33% of basic salary. ** If your current basic salary is within the band, but above the VOP range, your basic salary will not be reduced if you are selected for the position. The primary purpose of this position, Operations Research Analyst, NH-1515-03, is to serve as an Operations Research Analyst responsible for risk assessments of nuclear certification process activities involved in the development, integration, field support, and modernization of Air Force nuclear weapons and weapons systems. This position blends the expertise of management analysis with the precision of risk-based nuclear technical and operational certification. In this unique role, you'll have the opportunity to leverage your nuclear weapon systems experience while also honing your leadership skills. If you're ready to bring your background to the table and embark on an exciting journey that merges specialty with analysis skills, we want to hear from you! Candidates should have exceptionally strong teamwork, organizational, communication, qualitative, and quantitative skills. Candidate needs to be able to effectively communicate and collaborate with AFNWC Staff/Divisions/Directorates, field level users and their respective support agencies. This position is not eligible for remote work; situational telework only.

DUTIES:

• Identify and assess potential risks that may affect the organization
• Develop and implement risk management strategies and protocols
• Conduct risk analysis and report findings to senior management
• Collaborate with different departments to integrate risk management into operational processes
• Monitor and review risk management policies and procedures
• Lead risk assessment workshops and training sessions for staff
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory bodies for compliance
• Prepare and present detailed risk reports to stakeholders
• Manage the risk management team and provide guidance
• Evaluate the effectiveness of existing risk management controls and make recommendations for improvement
• Analytical Thinking: Strong capability to interpret complex data, model possible outcomes, and predict vulnerabilities
• Communication: Ability to clearly translate complex risk scenarios into actionable recommendations for diverse stakeholders
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with risk management software and tools

DESIREABLE EXPERIENCE

• Knowledge of Nuclear Surety, Compatibility, Certification, weapon system interfaces, weapon system support activities (logistics, inventory, production, program management, and engineering).
• Over 3 years of experience in a risk management role or related field.
• Understanding of risk management principles and methodologies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Required to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance.
• Employee must meet Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements, which includes achieving Engineering and Technical Management “Practitioner” certification category within required timeframe after appointment.
• Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft.
• To qualify as an Operations Research Analyst, the employee must meet both the college education and specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for the 1515 occupational series: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/

Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. citizenship required. Must be of legal working age.