Research Associate - Information Technology and Systems Division (ITSD)

About IDA

IDA is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that delivers objective, rigorous analysis on the nation's toughest national security, technology, and science policy challenges. Our work is team-based, multi-disciplinary, and deeply impactful to national defense.

About the Role

This position is in IDA's Information Technology and System Division (ITSD), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, DC. ITSD seeks a Research Associate with experience in digital engineering to contribute to the application of cutting-edge techniques to real-world programs. ITSD excels at empowering our partners through application of custom AI capabilities to answer critical national security research questions. Our AI-enabled research enables us to uncover strategic insights for key technology areas, national assets, critical infrastructure and more.

What You'll Do

• Conduct data collection, perform analyses, and create visualizations focused on foreign influence and technology exploitation.

• Work as a member of research teams under the direction of project leaders and other analysts to contribute effectively to a team approach to problem solving.

• Perform fact-finding tasks; develop preliminary analyses, and shape findings and recommendations for the team.

• Develop and apply information collection, compilation, summary and analysis methods to support the needs of particular analyses.

• Engage with sponsors to understand their needs and deliver timely, relevant, and actionable research.

• Communicate results clearly through written reports, briefings, and discussions with colleagues, sponsors, and stakeholders.

What You Bring

Required

This position requires access or potential access to restricted national security information that is Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals (NOFORN) data. Dual citizens cannot be considered for this opportunity.

• Master's degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience or a BS with at least 4 years of relevant experience in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Neuroscience, Economics, Mathematics, Physics, or an inter-disciplinary program that encompasses several of these fields of study.

• Demonstrated experience with data engineering and data pipeline development in the Python programming language (for example, using pipeline tools such as doit or luigi).

• Familiarity with software development best practices, principles and tools, including experience with git and other command line tools.

• Demonstrated experience querying and optimizing databases.

• Demonstrated experience with visualization tools such as Tableau, Neo4j, and Streamlit.

• Strong conceptual and analytical skills with demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Ability to thrive in cross-functional teams.

• Successful completion of a background check and ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred

• Prior military, DoD acquisition, or industry experience.

• Hands-on experience developing digital engineering capabilities and complex data pipelines.

• Experience collaborating with government sponsors or stakeholders.

Why IDA?

We are committed to creating a workplace that fosters inclusion and values the unique perspectives and experiences of every individual. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond recruitment; it permeates our culture, policies, and practices. We strive to provide a respectful and supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best. Click here to view our vision, mission, and guiding principles.

What are the next steps?

Complete the application and submit your resume.

The application process consists of three interviews.

• A short screening call with HR;

• A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and

• A full day interview with researchers and staff; which includes giving a presentation on a research project.

Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:

• Transcripts (unofficial accepted);

• 3 letters of recommendation; and

• A writing sample.

Benefits

At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.

Pay

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $81,475 - $190,249. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.

U.S. Citizenship is required

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

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