Research Scientist (Defense Acquisition Data Scientist)

Cna - Arlington, VA

Part-time,Full-time - Mid Level

Arlington, VA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

CNA is seeking a Defense Acquisition Data Scientist to join their Data Science Division (DSD). This role is pivotal in leading smaller and less complex projects while also contributing as a team member on larger projects that require specific technical and scientific expertise. The Defense Acquisition Data Scientist will engage in a variety of projects, particularly focusing on the analysis of defense acquisitions. Candidates should possess a solid understanding of the defense acquisitions process and be well-versed in the data science toolkit. The DSD is an integral part of the Center for Naval Analyses, providing essential data science expertise to the Department of the Navy and the Department of Defense. The division comprises both full-time and part-time analysts who hold advanced degrees in various fields, including data science, operations research, statistics, economics, computer science, physics, mathematics, engineering, and chemistry. The DSD is responsible for developing models and analytics that address a wide range of Navy-related issues, including aviation, surface warfare, undersea warfare, cyber operations, logistics, readiness, force generation, sustainment, acquisition, and cost modeling. Currently, the division supports the Navy's Performance-to-Plan forum, which is crucial for providing senior Navy leadership with forward-looking performance forecasts that articulate Navy progress toward readiness and capability goals. CNA promotes an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The organization fosters a flexible and engaging work environment that encourages iterative and creative collaboration throughout the problem-solving process. Employees are dedicated to assisting clients in developing effective solutions to manage their programs through scientific and data-driven methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Produce analysis on structured and unstructured problems that meets CNA's quality standards with limited direction and general supervision.
• Develop and maintain deep, specific institutional knowledge and expertise of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues.
• Balance responsiveness to guidance with independent action, contributing productively and harmoniously to the work of others.
• Support business development efforts and/or marketing activities by interacting with CNA managers and current clients/sponsors.
• Interact regularly and independently with clients/sponsors and related parties, representing CNA effectively.
• Influence decisions by sponsors/clients and provide them with implementable recommendations.
• Demonstrate strong and effective communication skills, summarizing and synthesizing larger pieces of work into effective executive summaries.
• Work under limited direction and general supervision from division management, managing all aspects of assigned projects.
• Play a supporting role in the mentoring and training of new staff, demonstrating initiative in improving project quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum Master's degree in data science, computer science, operations research, or a relevant field; PhD preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in research and analysis, with 2-3 years of Defense Acquisition Workforce experience.
• Ability to work on progressively more difficult projects/analyses, including directing portions of large research projects or small to medium projects under general supervision.
• Ability to operate independently and proactively in the execution of assignments.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment with strong critical thinking skills.
• Knowledge of research techniques and strong planning and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact directly and effectively with clients and influence their decisions.