Senior Research Specialist - (Geospatial /Stats Focus)
CNA, 3003 Washington Blvd, Arlington, Virginia, United States of America
Req #764
Thursday, May 1, 2025
PRIMARY PURPOSE
CNA's Center for Homeland Security and Infrastructure Resilience develops data-driven, analytic solutions to address complex and emerging problems. We conduct analysis and planning, build decision-support tools, and create training and exercises that support the safety and security of our nation's residents, visitors, environment, infrastructure, economy, and cyberspace.
Support project and other corporate needs including data collection, processing, vetting, and analysis; conducting technical assistance activities; and supporting proposal development. Act as primary data collector and contribute substantively to CNA studies and proposals, including report and memorandum preparation.
CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages collaboration. We seek creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR DUTIES
- Apply research methodologies to gather, process, and analyze data. Use database software to organize data and generate reports. Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office and other CNA software. Structure tasks like literature reviews, environmental scans, and interviews. Draft report sections. Begin to structure moderate scope problems and research or proposal tasks. Create briefings using MS PowerPoint and intermediate to advanced skills with MS Word and Excel.
- Develop familiarity with the division's or team's major client/sponsor missions and organizational structure. Identify key contacts and understand their importance to CNA.
- Participate in project meetings. Support client/sponsor interactions and maintain awareness of communications. Contribute to meetings as needed.
- Develop understanding or expertise on specific tasks or data to contribute positively to project outcomes.
- Gain knowledge of CNA's organization, key personnel, SOPs, and business environment. Understand project development processes and financial aspects. Contribute to financial discussions at the project level.
- Communicate effectively in oral and written formats. Draft report sections, briefings, and project deliverables in accordance with requirements and scholarly norms.
- Work independently on focused tasks and estimate time/resources needed. Work under supervision on broader tasks. Track personal project spending and understand project budgeting.
- Maintain a positive attitude in interactions. Take responsibility for actions and outcomes. Seek process improvements and contribute to a positive work environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Education: Bachelor's degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience or Master's degree.
- Experience: Minimum 2 years' relevant experience.
- Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office, database management, communication, critical thinking, organizational skills, and research techniques.
Voluntary (highly desired): Include a personal statement with your application. It helps us learn about your goals and interests. Personal statements are not used as an elimination criterion but to enhance your application.
CNA is committed to equal employment opportunities and complies with applicable laws. Background checks are required for employment consideration, and U.S. citizenship is required for positions requiring access to classified information.