What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Research Analyst position at Air Force Civilian Service?
Come be a part of something big! Smart Minds, Cool Jobs, and Awesome Rewards! Fueled by innovation, talent and ambition, the Air Force Civilian Service is seeking civilian professionals prepared to deploy war-winning capabilities on behalf of the United States Air Force. OPEN: 17 DECEMBER 2025 CLOSES: 08 JANUARY 2026 Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC) is currently seeking a full-time Operations Research Analyst, NH-1515-03 to work in the Mission Assurance Division, Nuclear Technology and Integration Directorate, at Kirtland Air Force Base near Albuquerque, NM. This position (009780641M) is an NH-1515-03 which has a typical 2025 salary range of $89,853 - $138,486 (with locality). Salary may increase at the start of 2026. **IMPORTANT**
- AFNWC is requiring the 2-page resume format for our job announcements. Please access this link to learn more about what to include in your resume: https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/what-to-include
- If you submit a resume that is more than 2 pages, you may receive an error message. Please submit no more than a 2-page resume to be considered.
- Provide all academic degrees, professional military education and any other professional certifications on your 2-page resume.
- Recruitment and or relocation bonuses might be offered upon review of qualifications, and other significant factors The primary purpose of this position is to serve as an Operations Research Analyst for the Mission Assurance Division, supplying analytic and procedural guidance for multidisciplinary projects executing strategic system capability assessments while providing advice and insight about probable effects of solutions to problems using mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques. DUTIES:
- Develops problem solving methods for nuclear-related issues which can arise from tests being performed.
- Coordinates and communicates with multiple System Program Offices to inform all aspects of testing activities with relevant survivability analyses, data collection survey findings, and mitigation strategies.
- Supports the standardization of test plans/reports.
- Leads four-phase analytical process (problem definition, model development, hypothesis testing and investigation, and predictions/explanations) for nuclear-related issues within scope of assigned work.
- Contributes to current and future policy and guidance development.
- Developes methods to organize, analyze, and report on large data sets and perform trend analysis. SKILLS:
- Candidates should have a strong background in problem definition, model development, hypothesis testing and investigation, and predictions/explanation, with a strong ability to gather, assemble, analyze, and interpret data and results to provide support to decision-makers.
- Candidates should have demonstrated experience in working effectively with multiple DoD, academic, and private industry organizations.
- A broad technical background and related AF operational experience is desired, with experience in operations research analysis, and developmental planning.
- Ability to problem solve through innovative approaches is required.
- Experience in analytical red-teaming, vulnerability analysis, root cause analysis, or risk analysis is a highly desired.
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills are required to effectively interface with internal and external stakeholders at all levels as well as the independence, assertiveness, self-reliance, and tenacity to get the job done.
- Application of critical thinking skills, risk management, configuration management, and decision analysis. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION (not all-inclusive):
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be TS/SCI eligible
- 3 to 5 years of experience using principles of the four-phase analytical process in formulating problem statements, using intangible characteristics (such as the human element) in modeling, hypothesis testing and investigation, and presenting recommendations for solutions.
- Knowledge of nuclear system military standards and governing documents.
- Required to handle and safeguard sensitive and/or classified information in accordance with regulations to reduce potential compromise; employee must obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance.
- In accordance with the Ethics in Government Act, 1978, employee may be required to file an OGE Form 450, Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, upon appointment and will be required to file annually.
- Highly desired: 3-5 years of scientific experience in the Human Factors Engineering discipline (other related areas may be acceptable).
- This position has been designated as an acquisition position and is covered by the Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP). The employee must meet, or be capable of meeting, Defense Acquisition Work Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements applicable to the duties of the position. Employee is expected to meet Continuous Acquisition Education requirements. Employee must obtain Level II certification in Engineering.
- This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent is subject to pre‐employment drug testing as a condition of employment, and participation in random drug testing.
- This position may require up to 25% travel.
- Candidates must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) All professional 1515 positions. https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/ HOW TO APPLY: When applying at the link below, please use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Click the apply button to complete an application and upload resume (PDF or Word format) and any additional documents (e.g., certifications, DD214, SF-50, etc.). **IMPORTANT**
- AFNWC is enforcing the 2-page resume format for our job announcements. Please access this link to learn more about what to include in your resume: https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/what-to-include
- If you submit a resume that is more than 2 pages, you may receive an error message. To be considered, submit no more than a 2-page resume.
- Candidates may be asked to provide three professional references upon request.
- Recruitment incentives/relocation expenses may be covered on a case by case basis. To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please subscribe at www.Afciviliancareers.com and sign up to “Get Career Updates.” U.S. citizenship required. AFCS is Equal Opportunity Employer. Must be of legal working age.
Salary : $89,853 - $138,486