Operations Research & Modeling Analyst

Company Description

The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is a federal nonprofit organization that markets electricity from 31 federal dams and one nuclear plant, supplying power to millions of consumers and businesses across eight states. BPA also operates around three-quarters of the region’s high-voltage transmission grid and funds one of the largest fish and wildlife programs globally. Committed to energy savings and operational efficiency, BPA collaborates with partners to ensure reliable and affordable energy for the Northwest. With locations throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, BPA offers a range of opportunities for professionals, students, and veterans to develop rewarding careers while giving back to the community.

Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application.

HOW TO APPLY:  External Application Link(s): 

        26-BPA- 50152-12897126-MP: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858920900

26-BPA- 50152-12894279-DE: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858766900

Open & Close date:    Open: 02/25/2026   Close: 03/06/2026

LOCATION(s)            Portland, OR

SALARY:                    $ 54,370 - $125,378 per year

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role located in Portland, OR, for an Operations Research & Modeling Analyst. The analyst will be responsible for conducting data analysis, applying advanced operations research techniques, and developing models to support decision-making processes. Duties include analyzing statistical data, identifying trends, performing research on operational issues, and preparing reports that provide actionable insights for improving energy systems. The role will also involve collaborating across departments to optimize procedures and support the organization’s strategic goals.

As an Operations Research & Modeling Analyst, you will:

• Lead Strategic Analytical Initiatives: Drive high-impact projects from conceptualization and research through rigorous data analysis, mathematical formulation, and the delivery of insightful, actionable conclusions.
• Engineer Advanced Mathematical Models: Design, develop, and apply sophisticated modeling techniques and/or mathematical algorithms to optimize operations and support critical decision-making.
• Conduct Dynamic Computer Simulations: Create and execute complex computer simulations to explore various scenarios, forecast trends, and evaluate the potential impact of different strategies.
• Perform Deep Quantitative Data Analysis: Leverage advanced probability, statistics, and trend analysis to uncover nuanced patterns and critical insights from large and diverse datasets.
• Pioneer Innovative Methods and Policies: Develop and propose novel analytical methods, criteria, and new policies or practices that enhance organizational effectiveness and adapt to evolving needs.
• Automate Analysis with Custom Software: Utilize technology, AI, and script development within typical and/or niche software to streamline analytical processes and improve efficiency across various functions.
• Influence Stakeholders with Clear Communication: Articulate and defend complex analytical findings, recommendations, and potentially sensitive issues through briefings and comprehensive reports to diverse audiences.
• Continuously Enhance Analytical Frameworks: Proactively modify and adapt established analytical methodologies to ensure ongoing relevance, accuracy, and support for dynamic organizational objectives.

REQUIREMENTS: Conditions of Employment

• You must be a United States Citizen.
• This employer participates in the e-Verify program.
• Males must abide by Selective Service registration requirements.
• You will be required to report in person to the official duty location.

QUALIFICATIONS:

BASIC 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.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position is defined as:

GS-7: Specialized experience for this position is defined as: Assisting with performing calculations, analyses, and computations of data with models and manipulating variables to determine how a process, object, or concept would behave in different situations; or using basic mathematical and statistical theories and practices to identify and interpret factors or relationships.

GS-9: Specialized experience for this position is defined as: Applying a practical knowledge of mathematics and/or operations research analysis to perform analytical investigations, problem solve, interpret and correlate various calculations, analyses, and computations to accomplish projects, plans, and reports.

GS-11: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-09 in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: Experience in researching, analyzing, interpreting, evaluating, and performing difficult but well precedented operations research, modeling, or other related assignments.

You may substitute education for specialized experience for the GS-7, GS-9, & GS-11 levels – See Specialized Experience section for full details.

GS-12: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level [GS-11] in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position is defined as: 1) experience using computer models or software tools to develop analytical models, mathematical and statistical analyses; 2) conducting risk management studies to help inform recommendations on policies, programs, processes; and/or 3) Resolving strategic or operational problems of an organization participating in a regulated industry.

There is no substitution of education for specialized experience at the GS-12 level.

"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills; and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

 EDUCATION

This vacancy has a positive education requirement. In order to be rated as qualified, you must provide copies of your college transcripts. Education must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. See Department of Education Accreditation Search to verify school accreditation.

Foreign education must be reviewed by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website.DO NOT email or mail in any of your application documents. Documents will not be accepted outside of the online application system.

Failure to provide copies of your college transcripts may result in a rating of "Ineligible".

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:  

To apply for this position, you MUST provide a complete application package.

 (See Required Documents section on application).

Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application.

USAHire: To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process. In addition to the application and application questionnaire, this position requires an online assessment. The online assessment measures critical general competencies required to perform the job. A complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the announcement closing date to receive consideration.