Operations Research Analyst

Job summary

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a recognized authority in one or more areas of Operations Research Analysis. Responsible for performing, directing, reviewing and consulting on scientific studies (either independently or as a team leader), on military problems requiring use of one or more scientific fields, as applied to general purpose force composition, employment and procedures.

Major duties

Plans and executes large, complex operations research studies, employing scientific and analytical techniques to define, quantify, and evaluate the feasibility of assigned projects, studies or problems. Independently develops and applies simulation or analytical models, using innovative mathematical, statistical, and operations research techniques for analysis. Provides authoritative recommendations and identify the need for original studies. Attends meetings, conferences, briefings, and seminars related to program planning, advanced technologies, and support system concepts.

Qualification

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional and Scientific Positions and the Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) for the GS-1515 Operations Research Series. BASIC REQUIREMENT: GS-1515: A Bachelor's degree (or higher 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. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts with your application. EVALUATION OF EDUCATION: The primary requirement of operations research work is competence in the rigorous methods of scientific inquiry and analysis rather than in the subject matter of the problem. Therefore, applicants should have sufficient knowledge of applied mathematics to understand and use the fundamental concepts and techniques of operations research methods of analysis. In addition, some positions may require knowledge of a specific subject area. Courses acceptable for qualifying for operations research positions may have been taken in departments other than Operations Research, e.g., Engineering (usually Industrial Engineering), Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Management Science. 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-13, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes comprehensive knowledge and mastery of one or more specialized areas of operations research sufficient to apply new analytical developments, methodologies and research findings to broad studies of an unprecedented nature. Extensive knowledge and mastery of research techniques and concomitant ability to obtain information concerning subject studies to be able to provide sound analyses. Knowledge of advanced, analytical, mathematical, or statistical theories, principles, concepts, methods, and techniques to provide expert judgments concerning the validity of assumptions made and the criteria to evaluate alternatives. Knowledge of workings, characteristics and composition of major weapons systems and relationships to other weapons systems and concomitant military operations, strategies, tactics and associated logistics. Skill in coordinating extensive projects in assigned areas of responsibility. Projects are characterized by high visibility, urgency, or program criticality. Ability to use advanced techniques and the modification and extension of theories, precepts and practices of operations research and related sciences and disciplines. 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-13 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-14 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 and mastery of classical and modern advanced operations research analysis techniques and possession of analytical abilities. 2. Knowledge of weapons systems. 3. Ability to use expert quantitative techniques and methods to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models and simulations to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions. 4. Ability to organize and 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. 6. Ability to recognize and use correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicate information in writing in a succinct and organized manner; and produce written information, including technical material, which is appropriate for the intended audience. 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.

Education

IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcripts with the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Evaluations

The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job. For additional information on what to include in your resume, click here. APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume. Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further.