Operations Research Analyst

Summary

The Operations Research Analyst serves in the Office of Advanced Aviation Technologies, Analysis and Evaluation Division, Test Sites and Operational Evaluations Branch, AAT-320.

Duties

The Operations Research Analyst applies experience and comprehensive knowledge and experience in operations research theory, mathematics, statistics, econometrics, modeling, simulation, and data mining techniques to conduct Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) research and development (R&D) integration activities for solving complex problems and developing improved technical processes or systems. Supports the integration of research priorities, schedules, resources, and program objectives across related UAS and AAM initiatives. Contributes to the integration of R&D planning and budgeting activities with other FAA organizations and government agencies to promote alignment of research priorities and resources. Applies an understanding of new technologies and analytical methodologies to address complex technical, operational, programmatic, and organizational problems associated with the integration of UAS and AAM into the National Airspace System (NAS). Performs multiple, varying and complex assignments under the minimal direction of a manager, project/program manager, team leader, or more experienced technical specialist. As a principal specialist, develops operations research methods to evaluate and improve programs, policies, processes, and operational concepts associated with UAS and AAM integration. Collaborates with R&D sponsor organizations to identify, refine, prioritize, and translate research requirements into executable research plans. Develops plans, statistical and mathematical approaches, and policies to address programmatic, technical, and administrative problems and issues. Develops mathematical, statistical, and computational models to examine complex aviation systems, compare alternative approaches, determine optimal or practical solutions, and assess the effects of resource allocation, scheduling, capacity, system performance, and operational efficiency. Formulates mathematical, statistical, and computational models to analyze complex systems, identify optimal or near-optimal solutions, and evaluate alternatives involving resource allocation, scheduling, capacity, system performance, and operational efficiency. Develops quantitative models and conducts optimization, statistical, and decision analyses to evaluate competing research alternatives, assess resource requirements and program implications, and inform research priorities, planning, and program decisions. Designs and integrates simulation models for evaluating UAS and AAM operations within the National Airspace System (NAS). Uses simulation and scenario-based analysis to assess current and anticipated operating environments, examine alternative integration concepts, identify system constraints and performance impacts, and evaluate potential solutions under varying operational conditions and assumptions, working with management to solve problems. Conducts sensitivity and trade-off analyses to assess the effects of changes in system parameters, operational requirements, airspace conditions, and other relevant variables. Conducts and coordinates analytical research and studies to identify and evaluate technical and operational issues affecting UAS/AAM integration, including detect and avoid, communications and control, system safety, weather, human factors, and airspace operations. Defines analytical approaches, research methodologies, data requirements, measures of effectiveness, and evaluation criteria needed to conduct research studies. Integrates analytical findings across technical disciplines to develop comprehensive assessments of UAS/AAM integration challenges and potential solutions.

Qualifications

To view the complete qualification standards provided by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for all positions under the Operations Research Analyst, please use the link below: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/ Basic Requirements 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. To qualify for this position at the J-band: you must demonstrate in your application that you possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to FV-I, FG/GS- 13 in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. Specialized experience includes: Experience analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends, relationships, patterns, anomalies, and emerging issues across datasets. Experience identifying deficiencies, analytical gaps, process improvements, and opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of research and development activities.

Education

This position has a positive education requirement: Applicants must submit a copy of their college or university transcripts(s) and certificates by the closing date of announcement to verify qualifications. If selected, an official transcript will be required prior to appointment. You may upload these documents with your application in USAJOBS or fax it to fax number provided in the announcement (please include announcement number on each page). Failure to do so will result in loss of consideration. Schools must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation may be verified at the following website: www.ed.gov/accreditation. Foreign education must be evaluated by a private professional organization specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials or an accredited U.S. educational institution in terms of equivalence to a degree acquired at an American college or university. A copy of the evaluation results must be included, otherwise your foreign education will not be considered.