Jr. Operations Research Analyst

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high‑impact technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for government customers across the U.S. and abroad. Our talented, collaborative team produces results that matter.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of War, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning the Department of Defense, federal civilians, and international markets. JOID offers a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic, and analytical support to customers with missions in national security, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The group brings technical and operational expertise in fields such as countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, and transportation safety.

We have a future need for a Jr. Operations Research Analyst to assist with systems engineering (SE) and testing and evaluation (T&E) programs in support of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The primary place of performance will be SPA headquarters in Alexandria, VA, with regular visits to customer sites in VA and DC.

The Jr. Operations Research Analyst will provide expert analysis and solution development in a specialized field. The position involves evaluating and analyzing complex problems and then recommending and implementing solutions using advanced subject‑matter knowledge. The role applies established principles and methods—such as data analytics, economic/behavioral analysis, process modeling, performance management, change management, regulatory compliance, or technical domains like communication networks or defense capabilities—to improve processes, support decision‑making, and ensure quality and effectiveness across organizational initiatives associated with DHS capability development efforts.

• Bachelor’s degree with 0–3 years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively, both in written and verbal formats, with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain DHS suitability.

• DHS Systems Engineering Level 1, DAWIA Engineering and Technical Management Foundational Level 1, and/or ASEP (Associate Systems Engineering Professional): INCOSE.
• Experience in providing assistance to program planning and oversight, exercise, development, execution and evaluation; system‑level analysis; system integration support, inclusive of understanding of threats and vulnerability; technical assessment & evaluation to support and complement the Government’s technical experts in applying both acquisition efforts and RDT&E toward accomplishing the DHS mission.
• Prior experience supporting DHS programs.
• Active DHS suitability.

At SPA we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. Eligible employees have access to a variety of benefit programs—including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance, and paid and unpaid time‑off options—whose specific terms may vary by eligibility factors such as location and date of hire.

VA Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $67,500.00 – $85,000.00 per year.