Research Program Director, Marine Corps & Defense Workforce

CNA Corporation; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Research Program Director to lead their Marine Corps and Defense Workforce Program. This pivotal role involves overseeing multiple research projects, fostering relationships with program sponsors, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality analytic products. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in research and analysis, coupled with excellent project management skills. Join a collaborative and inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and is committed to developing effective solutions for complex challenges. If you're ready to make a significant impact in the defense sector, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in research and analysis required.
• Advanced degree in relevant field is essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the Marine Corps and Defense Workforce Program.
• Develop relationships with program sponsors and support program research.

Skills

Research and analysis

Project management

Quality assurance

Communication

Mentoring and coaching

Education

Advanced degree in economics or related discipline

Job description

Research Program Director, Marine Corps & Defense Workforce

Arlington, VA, USA

Job Description

Posted Friday, February 7, 2025 at 5:00 AM | Expires Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 3:59 AM

CNA is a not-for-profit research and analysis corporation running two major business units, CNA, the Department of the Navy’s Federally Funded R&D Center (FFRDC), and the Institute for Public Research, which provides analytic support to non-DOD government sponsors. RFR is a division within the FFRDC. Our primary clients are the Navy and Marine Corps. We also support OSD and other components of DOD. As our name implies, RFR focuses on a full range of resource issues. Six programs within RFR address problems in manpower, personnel, training and education; energy, infrastructure and the environment; cost, acquisition processes, material and supply readiness and logistics; and health analytics and medical readiness. CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem solving process. Our employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.

PRIMARY PURPOSE

The Resources and Force Readiness (RFR) division of CNA is seeking a Research Program Director who will be responsible for oversight and management of CNA’s Marine Corps and Defense Workforce Program, to include: production of analytic products that meet CNA quality standards; development and maintenance of relationships with program sponsor base; management and professional development of program staff; and development and sustainment of a stable funding base to support program research. This leadership role carries with it personal and corporate responsibility to build and sustain a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR DUTIES

1. Assist the Research Division Vice President in developing the division research plan, allocating personnel and resources to execute the plan, and managing the plan to meet all assigned financial and execution objectives.
2. Provide guidance and support to project directors.
3. Support corporate, division, and program (if applicable) goals for business development by developing a stable funding base to support program research and supporting the business development efforts of other research program directors across the FFRDC.
4. Develop and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with program sponsors. Demonstrate through program products and personal interactions that we are committed to their success. Maintain and cultivate these relationships over time.
5. Conduct analysis and research.
6. Create and foster a collaborative work environment.
7. Exercise oversight of assigned projects to ensure they meet CNA’s quality standards.
8. Support division and business unit recruiting and retention efforts to develop and maintain a high-quality, diverse workforce.
9. Guide and assist assigned program staff with their professional development.
10. Provide the primary formal performance evaluation of assigned program staff.
11. Exercise oversight of work conducted by any assigned field reps.
12. Develop staffing pipelines for any assigned field billets and support the field slating process.
13. Perform other duties as assigned by the Research Division Vice President.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Education: Advanced degree in economics, operations research, industrial/organizational psychology, other social sciences, or related discipline.
2. Experience: Must have 8 to 10 years’ experience in research and analysis, prior experience as a study director on major projects for sponsors, and significant experience or expertise in a scientific or policy area relevant to sponsor needs and CNA programs.
3. Skills: Ability to

• Oversee completion of multiple research projects in the diverse fields of manpower, personnel, training, and education.
• Conduct independent research and direct research of individual analysts and program projects.
• Perform quality assurance reviews of projects and ensure they are completed on time and within budget.
• Assemble and present complex analyses and communicate effectively to clients.
• Understand and objectively critique research being carried out.
• Understand client's needs and integrate those needs into CNA's ongoing research program.
• Prepare objective, constructive performance evaluations as well as mentor and coach staff.

Other: Must have ability to obtain and maintain security clearance.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Writing sample

***Voluntary (but highly desired) document***
Please include a personal statement as part of your application. A personal statement is a chance for us to get to know you. The statement is your opportunity to share your goals, interests, influences and show us that you will be a valuable asset to our organization.

CNA is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service and protected veterans, or other non-merit based factors. In addition to federal legal requirements, CNA complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.