Research Associate - Missile Defense Systems

Overview

The Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) has an immediate opening for a research associate at Schriever SFB, Colorado to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) in analysis of the Command Control Battle Management and Communications (C2

BMC) and the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Architecture (BOA) elements of the Missile Defense System (MDS) in system level testing. 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 encouraging rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues.

IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package

Responsibilities

The C2

BMC and BOA analysis group within S3D provides independent, technically rigorous analysis and decision support to MDA officials on the test and evaluation of these elements within the Missile Defense System (MDS) and will in due course require a very deep understanding of those systems. Based in support of the C2

BMC program at the Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center (MDIOC) in Colorado Springs, the group evaluates all aspects of C2

BMC and BOA performance, including maintaining a consistent integrated air picture, providing situational awareness, managing sensors, and assessing system interoperability. Analysts support test planning and execution, conduct independent and in-depth analyses of test results, identify issues and anomalies, direct the efforts of other analysts, and support real-world missile launch events, presenting findings to mid- and senior-level military and civilian leaders across MDA.

The work involves close interaction with government officials and contractors responsible for planning and executing MDS tests, as well as those responsible for developing, fielding, and operating C2

BMC, BOA and other MDS systems. It requires strong scientific and technical skills, particularly quantitative analysis, and is conducted both independently and in small teams. Occasional travel may be required.

Required Qualifications

• Candidates must have one of the following education/experience combinations:
  • A Master’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 4+ years’ experience; OR
  • A Bachelor’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 6+ years’ experience.
• Ability to collect, organize, synthesize and analyze data; summarize findings, develop and report conclusions. Able to problem solve in a clear and concise manner, have strong communication skills and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience with data parsing, filtering and manipulation; MATLAB preferred.
• Must be capable of expressing complex ideas and concepts to both senior leaders and other technical analysts.
• Current DOD Secret Security Clearance required.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• This position is located at at Schriever SFB, Colorado.

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