Research Analyst - Naval Warfare - Entry Level PhD

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

Job summary

Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) in Alexandria, VA seeks a Naval Warfare Analyst at entry level for Operational Test and Evaluation to support DoD assessments of naval systems. The role involves analyzing testing and providing independent assessments to senior officials.

The position requires a PhD or 8+ years with a master's, strong Python/R/AI skills, and willingness to travel up to 25%. A security clearance and background check are required for employment with IDA.

Qualifications

• PhD or 8+ years experience with master's in Operations Research, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, National Security, or related quantitative field.
• Experience compiling and analyzing quantitative data; proficiency with Python, R and AI (LLMs, ML, Agentic AI).
• Security eligibility and background check; prior DoD or OT&E experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials on OT&E of major defense programs.
• Analyze design, execution, and results of operational tests for submarines, ships, combat systems and missiles.
• Provide independent assessment to OSD's Director, OT&E; interact with government officials for planning and testing.
• Travel up to 25% is required.

Skills

Python

R

AI

Education

PhD or 8+ years experience with a master's

Job description

Naval Warfare Analyst Entry Level PhD - Operational Test and Evaluation

The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst supporting the Department of War's assessments of the operational effectiveness and suitability of naval warfare systems. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non‑profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.

Responsibilities

The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior‑level civilian and military officials regarding the operational test and evaluation of Major Defense Acquisition Programs. In particular, the successful candidate will provide analytical support to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) regarding the testing and evaluation of submarines, ships, combat systems and missile systems. This analytical support includes analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing, and providing an independent assessment to OSD's Director, Operational Test and Evaluation. Close interaction with government officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of at‑sea tests and modeling and simulation runs is required. Travel is required.

Required Qualifications

• PhD or 8+ years experience and a master's degree in Operations Research, Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, National Security, or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus.
• Candidates must have relevant work experience compiling and analyzing quantitative data. Experience with Python, R and AI (LLMs, Machine Learning, Agentic AI etc.)
• Prior-Military, DoD acquisition, or test and evaluation experience is a plus.
• Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information as required.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• The position is located at IDA's Alexandria, Virginia headquarters.
• Up to 25% travel is required.

Why work at IDA?

• Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
• Mission‑oriented work at a non‑profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non‑profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
• Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, and funding for researcher‑pitched projects and publications;
• A strong employee and corporate culture of work‑life balance, including commitment to average 40‑hour work weeks and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
• Organization‑wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data‑driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
• Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
• A brand‑new facility located in Alexandria's high‑tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?

• Complete the application and submit your resume.
• The application process consists of three interviews.
  • A short screening call with HR;
  • A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and
  • Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
  • 3 letters of recommendation; and
  • A writing sample.

Benefits

At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well‑being and safety of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand‑alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work‑life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.

Pay

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data‑driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.

U.S. Citizenship is required

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to [e-mail] and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

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