Research Analyst (Operational Data Analyst)

Cna - Warrenton, VA

Part-time,Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Warrenton, VA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

CNA is currently seeking Research Analysts - Operational Data Analysts for our Center for Data Management and Analytics in our Institute for Public Research Division. This position is hybrid, requiring time onsite at the FAA's Command Center in Warrenton, VA, as well as remote work. The successful candidates will join a strong team providing real-time data analysis to support aviation operations at the FAA's Air Traffic Control System Command Center. The Operational Data Analyst will play a crucial role in providing air traffic data analyses on historic and real-time operational data to support air traffic decision-making. The candidate will apply their expertise in databases, spatial data analyses, and problem-solving to lead an innovative, operational, data-driven, and customer-focused team. This role requires a flexible schedule to support real-time on-site shift-based operations in a fast-paced environment. CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives, encouraging iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem-solving process. Employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. The position involves working with minimal or no guidance on well-structured pieces of projects, developing sound analytic frameworks, and contributing productively to the work of others. The candidate will also support business development efforts, interact with sponsors and clients, and make significant contributions to research publications and analytic products. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively presenting work to colleagues and clients, and the ability to manage projects and deliver quality work within scope, budget, and schedule is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Provide air traffic data analyses on historic and real-time operational data to support air traffic decision-making.
• Develop and maintain broad institutional knowledge of primary clients and their organizational culture and issues.
• Contribute productively to team efforts and identify opportunities for collaboration within the team and division.
• Support business development efforts by maintaining strong client relationships and increasing visibility of work.
• Interact with sponsors and clients under supervision and independently with study points of contact.
• Make significant contributions to research publications and analytic products for individual projects.
• Communicate results of work clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally.
• Work on well-structured pieces of projects with minimal guidance and serve as task lead for complex projects under supervision.
• Exhibit a positive attitude in interactions with colleagues and clients, providing clear guidance and taking responsibility for outcomes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., science, engineering, mathematics, or data science preferred) or equivalent experience; PhD preferred.
• Typical minimum requirements: Ph.D. & 0+ years or Master's & 2+ years of experience in research and analysis, including experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques and applications.
• Demonstrated proficiency in working with databases such as Postgres, Oracle, MS SQL Server, Access, and/or Windows servers.
• Demonstrated proficiency in working with spatial data and performing spatial analyses using spatial databases (such as PostGIS and Oracle Spatial).
• Experience in advanced use of SQL, PL/SQL, R, Python for analyzing large data sets.
• Experience visualizing data with tools such as R, Tableau, or PowerBI.
• Experience with tools such as ArcGIS for spatial analysis preferred.
• Ability to write clear technical documentation and provide training.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-collaborative environment and lead a technical team on complex projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills for interfacing with client representatives and internal customers.
• Excellent customer service skills and attitude.
• Ability to manage a project and deliver quality work within scope, budget, and schedule.
• Ability to proactively identify technical and project risks and mitigations.
• Good organization skills and attention to detail.
• Good oral and written communications skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with aviation operations and air traffic data highly preferred.
• Basic understanding of FAA traffic management initiatives and ability to interpret flight data is a plus, but not required.
• Interest in supporting the mission of an efficient and safe air traffic system is highly desired.