Job Summary
A growing defense and space-focused organization is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Operations Research Analyst to join its innovative, mission-focused team. This role provides the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of experts dedicated to advancing national security space capabilities and supporting critical Department of the Air Force missions.
In this position, the Senior Operations Research Analyst will support a portfolio of special projects, including Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) missions. The selected candidate will leverage deep technical, operational, and analytical expertise to enable the rapid planning, integration, and execution of responsive space capabilities.
The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience across the full space mission lifecycle, including spacecraft systems, ground systems, launch operations, and on-orbit execution. This role requires the ability to assess complex operational challenges, operate effectively within accelerated timelines, and deliver innovative solutions that enhance responsive and resilient space operations.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Operations Research Analyst will:
- Lead the planning and execution of Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) missions, including spacecraft integration, ground systems, launch operations, logistics, and on-orbit execution
- Direct mission analysis, mission planning, CONOPS development, and readiness exercises to enable responsive space operations
- Serve as a primary interface with government customers, mission partners, and industry stakeholders to ensure mission alignment and rapid execution
- Oversee the Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) technical baseline, driving integration across spacecraft buses, payloads, ground systems, software, and mission systems
- Establish and manage technical risk registers; develop and implement mitigation strategies across mission and system elements
- Provide expert technical assessments of space, ground, and operational architectures to inform mission planning and system integration decisions
- Define system performance data requirements, support sustainment strategies, and contribute to the development of C2 and mission planning software
- Develop and refine acquisition requirements and documentation supporting rapid procurement pathways (e.g., SBIR, OTA)
- Lead technical evaluations of proposals, support source selections, and ensure alignment with mission and operational requirements
- Oversee programmatic activities, including financial documentation (e.g., Form 9, MIPR) and tracking of cost, schedule, and performance metrics
- Coordinate across contractors, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure execution and adherence to program timelines
- Support and advise on technical and contractual negotiations related to scope, pricing, and program requirements
- Apply and integrate Joint Warfighting Concepts, CCMD processes, and operational planning frameworks (e.g., DIME, OODA Loop, JPP) into mission execution
Requirements
Skills and Experience
The Senior Operations Research Analyst must have:
- Active TS/SCI clearance with SAP access
- 15+ years of experience supporting large-scale space programs in acquisition, systems engineering, or space operations
- 5+ years of direct experience in space operations or operational mission planning
- 10+ years of experience with National Security Space systems, including spacecraft, ground systems, and/or launch operations
- Deep understanding of space mission architecture, spacecraft systems, ground segment operations, and launch integration
- Demonstrated experience supporting rapid acquisition programs and accelerated development environments (e.g., SBIR, OTA)
- Proven ability to lead technical integration across multiple mission elements and stakeholder organizations
- Strong analytical and problem-solving expertise in mission planning, operational analysis, and technical risk management
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience briefing senior leadership and mission partners
- Ability and willingness to work onsite within U.S. Government facilities and secure environments
Education and Certifications
Required
- Bachelors Degree (STEM preferred)
- Masters Degree (STEM, business/management, or related field)