OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST
Air Combat Command
Posted: January 8, 2026 (6 days ago)
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Air Combat Command
Department of the Air Force
Location
Salary
$107,643 - $139,938
per year
Type
Full Time
More Science & Research jobs →Closes
Base salary range: $74,441 - $96,770
Typical requirements: 1 year specialized experience at GS-11. Advanced degree + significant experience.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
This job involves using math and data analysis to study weapons systems for the Air Force, helping to predict outcomes of different strategies and provide expert advice on the best options.
It's ideal for someone with a strong background in operations research who enjoys tackling complex problems with models and simulations.
The role requires leading projects under tight deadlines in a high-stakes military environment.
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The purpose of this position is: To serve as an analyst and recognized expert performing professional and scientific work requiring the design, development, and adaptation of mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques for weapons systems and provide advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative courses of action.
In order to qualify, you must meet the basic requirement and specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional and Scientific Positions BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: Degree: in operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics.
At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
YOU MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems.
Examples of specialized experience includes mastery of one or more specialized areas of weapons systems operations research sufficient to apply new analytical developments, methodologies, and research findings to broad studies of an unprecedented nature.
Mastery knowledge of research techniques and concomitant ability to obtain information concerning subject studies so as to be able to perform sound analyses.
Coordinating extensive projects in assigned areas of responsibility. Projects are characterized by high visibility, unusual urgency, or program criticality.
Identify the significant variables and determine their underlying relationships.
Utilize advanced techniques and the modification and extension of theories, precepts, and practices of operations research and related sciences and disciplines.
Design, build, and use very complex, sophisticated models to simulate real-world environments of many variables.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible.
One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks.
NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1.
Knowledge of a broad range of weapons systems operations research analysis techniques and possession of analytical abilities. 2.
Knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions. 3.
Skill to negotiate and/or defend findings and program support concepts. 4.
Ability to lead study teams; originate new ideas, projects, and methodologies; and execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time constraints. 5.
Ability to develop and utilize appropriate data collection techniques and design, build, and use models and simulation techniques. 6.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; negotiate complex issues; and maintain good working relationships.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work.
You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Major Duties:
Performs a broad range of weapons systems analyses assignments developing methodologies for and evaluating the cost effectiveness of advanced weapons systems, related equipment, and force structures.
Utilizes scientific inquiry in the independent development of mathematical models and computer programs to evaluate and predict the ability to support assigned projects, studies, or problems.
Provides technical guidance, advisory support, and assistance on an entire project and/or major phases for broad and varied operations.
Attends meetings, conferences, briefings, and seminars related to program planning, advanced technologies, and support system concepts.
Accomplishes professional development and maintains technical proficiency through professional interaction with technical and professional societies, associations, academia, symposia, contractors, research and development (R&D) organizations and participation in formal training programs.
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