Senior Research Specialist Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustain[...]

Tetra Tech; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in Washington, D.C. seeks a Senior Research Specialist to provide critical input for defense acquisition strategies. The role requires extensive experience in DoD policy and logistics, focusing on research and analysis to support strategic communication efforts. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree and a current TS/SCI security clearance.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of experience in DoD policy, product support, and logistics.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects and provide technical guidance.

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze data to inform defense acquisition decisions.
• Conduct technical reviews and assessments of defense systems.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior officials.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Analytical Skills

Strategic Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree

Job description

Management Systems International (MSI), a Tetra Tech Company, is a Washington, D.C. metro area management consultancy with a 40-year history of delivering results for our clients. Our expertise spans monitoring and evaluation, democracy and governance, peace and stability, rule of law and accountability, education, strategic communications, and leadership and organizational development. MSI has implemented projects in 90 countries worldwide, including Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Syria, and Ukraine. We support clients such as the U.S. Government agencies (e.g., USAID, DoD, State Department, MCC), large bilateral and multilateral donors (e.g., World Bank, UNDP), as well as national and local governments, NGOs, think tanks, foundations, and universities. For more information, visit www.msiworldwide.com.

Proposal Summary:

The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD(A&S)) oversees research and development, advanced technology, testing, logistics, and other defense-related areas. To support these efforts, OUSD(A&S) requires administrative, analytical, and strategic communication services.

Position Summary:

MSI seeks a Senior Research Specialist responsible for research, analysis, and developing recommendations on defense programs and projects. The role provides critical input for strategy and policy development related to defense acquisition and sustainment. The position is based in the DC metro area.

Note: Only U.S. citizens with a current TS/SCI security clearance, or TS clearance with SCI eligibility, are eligible to apply.

Responsibilities:

1. Collect and analyze data from various sources to inform defense acquisition and sustainment decisions.
2. Identify emerging technologies and operational trends impacting defense strategies.
3. Conduct technical reviews and assessments of defense systems, technologies, and processes.
4. Assist in developing policies and strategies for defense systems management.
5. Research specific program requirements, risks, and technological feasibility.
6. Support cost-effectiveness analyses and risk management strategies.
7. Prepare reports, white papers, and presentations for senior officials and stakeholders.
8. Deliver presentations and briefings to leadership and working groups.
9. Collaborate with other departments and external organizations to align research with operational needs.
10. Provide insights to shape long-term strategic plans for defense systems.
11. Assist in developing budgets, resource plans, and financial justifications.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
2. At least 10 years of experience in DoD policy, product support, and logistics.
3. Experience supporting executive-level decisions within DoD and federal agencies.
4. Proven ability to lead complex projects and provide technical guidance.
5. Experience managing customer expectations and working directly with clients.
6. Outstanding customer service, initiative, judgment, creativity, flexibility, and confidence.
7. Ability to multitask across multiple projects.
8. Master's degree preferred.

At MSI, health and safety are priorities. We adhere to all health and safety protocols, including COVID-19 regulations. MSI is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on protected attributes and provide reasonable accommodations as needed.

Reasonable Accommodations:

For accommodations during the application process, visit Tetra Tech's Disability Assistance Page. We look forward to engaging with qualified candidates. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted. No phone inquiries, please.