Research Associate - Digital Engineering

Research Associate

This position is part of IDA's Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. IDA is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that delivers objective, rigorous analysis on the nation's toughest national security, technology, and science policy challenges. Our work is team-based, multi-disciplinary, and deeply impactful to national defense.

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) seeks a Research Associate with experience in digital engineering and model-based systems engineering to advance and apply methods that support the test and evaluation (T&E) of U.S. defense systems. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to both methodological innovation and the application of cutting-edge techniques to real-world programs, including emerging areas such as AI-enabled systems.

What You'll Do

• Advance methods for applying digital engineering and model-based approaches to T&E artifacts, processes, and assurance cases.
• Develop, analyze, and apply digital engineering models and frameworks to inform T&E decision-making.
• Develop methods to integrate diverse T&E methodologies into digital engineering ecosystems.
• Develop and maintain reference architectures within an MBSE environment integrating test plans, reports, and system requirements to assess system maturity and performance.
• Collaborate across the test and evaluation enterprise to develop visualizations and metrics that communicate system maturity and performance trends.
• Plan, design, observe, and analyze operational testing of military systems to evaluate whether they meet end-user mission needs.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of systems by participating in Department-wide working groups, attending test events, and analyzing results.
• Conduct independent, in-depth analyses of test results to assess effectiveness, suitability, and survivability of systems against realistic threats.
• Work independently and in small teams to advocate for adequate testing, ensuring that military systems are safe, effective, and suitable.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams of engineers, scientists, statisticians, and human factors experts.
• Engage with sponsors to understand their needs and deliver timely, relevant, and actionable research.
• Communicate results clearly through written reports, briefings, and discussions with colleagues, sponsors, and stakeholders.

What You Bring

Required

• Master's degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience or a BS with at least 4 years of relevant experience in a STEM field (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, IT, Computer Science, or Operations Research);
• Knowledge of digital engineering concepts, including model-based systems engineering approaches and tools (e.g., SysML, digital twins, digital threads).
• Demonstrated experience with MBSE principles and tools, including proficiency in SysML and Cameo Systems Modeler/Magic Draw.
• Demonstrated experience with systems simulation tools (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink, STK, AFSIM).
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills with demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to thrive in cross-functional teams.
• Availability to travel up to 25%.
• Successful completion of a background check and ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred

• Prior military, DoD acquisition, Industry, and/or T&E experience.
• Hands-on experience developing digital engineering models.
• Familiarity with T&E of defense systems (operational or developmental).
• Knowledge of assurance cases or digital assurance frameworks.
• Industry experience applying digital engineering or model-based methods.
• Experience collaborating with government sponsors or stakeholders.

Why IDA?

We are committed to creating a workplace that fosters inclusion and values the unique perspectives and experiences of every individual. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond recruitment; it permeates our culture, policies, and practices. We strive to provide a respectful and supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best.

What are the next steps? Complete the application and submit your resume. The application process consists of three interviews. A short screening call with HR; A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project. Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide: Transcripts (unofficial accepted); 3 letters of recommendation; and A writing sample.

Benefits

At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities.

Pay

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $81,475 - $190,249. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.