Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

The Operations Research Analyst provides independent analysis and valuation of select NGA plans, programs, mission, and other enterprise-wide efforts and initiatives to inform resource decision-makers or address key concerns of NGA leadership. ORAs lead and support the conduct of statistical analysis (e.g. regression, stochastic) of historical data as an empirical basis for producing independent cost estimates, new analyses of alternatives, or program evaluations.

They will collaborate with program, contracting and technical offices in developing scope, baseline, ground rules and assumptions. They will also collaborate with internal Agency, DoD/IC and industry partners to improve program evaluation practices and standards and enhance data collection methods.

The Operations Research Analyst (ORA) Cost Estimator supports the planning, implementation, and sustainment of systems and/or programs to meet customer requirements by providing cost analysis services. They develop cost estimates and models, conduct feasibility studies and tradeoff analyses, assess risk and schedule, and prepare or evaluate estimates for analysis of alternatives and business cases for planned solutions. They develop rough order-of-magnitude estimates for new initiatives/projects and budgetary investment/divestment decisions.

They conduct statistical analyses to produce cost estimates, conduct cost research, and provide cost expertise for Agency and community-wide initiatives.

Duties:

• Conduct credible and timely cost estimates to support the acquisition process for select programs; enabling internal and external leadership to make informed decisions concerning cost, budget, and schedule
• Conduct data collection, research and analysis to improve the accuracy and reliability of cost estimates
• Build quantitative models to predict the future cost of systems and assess programmatic risks; document results
• Prepare briefings and present cost analysis results to internal and external stakeholders
• Collaborate with IC, DOD, and industry partners on best practices and tradecraft improvement
• Provide leadership and guidance to a team of Cost Analysts