Job Title: Research Specialist (Junior-Level)
Location: Offutt AFB, Nebraska (USSTRATCOM - Primary work location) and Omaha, Nebraska (Scott Technology Center)
Clearance Required: Eligibility to obtain a DoD Security Clearance is required; an active clearance is preferred but not mandatory at the time of hire.
Target Salary Range: Starting salary of $70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Position Summary:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI), a Department of Defense (DoD)-sponsored University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), is seeking a junior-level researcher to execute and support a growing research portfolio tied to U.S. Strategic Command's (USSTRATCOM's) requirements.
The Research Specialist is responsible for researching and applying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subject matter to support research efforts that fall within NSRI's Mission-Related Research (MRR) core competency. USSTRATCOM's missions include strategic deterrence, nuclear operations, Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (JEMSO), global strike, missile defense, analysis and targeting, missile threat assessment, and Nuclear, Command, Control, and Communications (NC3).
Based at Offutt AFB, Nebraska, this position supports classified and unclassified research programs in direct partnership with DoD, USSTRATCOM, and other government sponsors. The successful candidate will perform research and business support work that includes technical research, systems engineering, project management, and human capital development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provides technical support to NSRI projects funded by USSTRATCOM and other mission partners
- Performs technical research supporting USSTRATCOM missions
- Engages and collaborates with University of Nebraska faculty and students in supporting the UARC mission
- Applies systems engineering processes to research efforts:
- Develops basic project management controls and tools
- Conducts literature reviews
- Develops analytical processes and frameworks
- Assesses and evaluates technical requirements
- Develops and analyzes system architectures
- Performs modeling and simulation (e.g., MATLAB / Simulink, Python)
- Develops prototypes
- Conducts testing
- Creates technical documentation
- Experience with tools and methodologies for data analysis, modeling and simulation, operational research.
- Maintains awareness of USSTRATCOM's science and technical needs and advocates/coordinates potential NSRI support
- Provides leadership, support and mentorship for NSRI's internship programs
- Performs STEM outreach activities
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., political science, international relations, national security, engineering, physics, computer science) from an accredited university or college.
- Experience working as part of a multi-functional team in an office or laboratory environment.
- General knowledge of government-funded R&D efforts.
- Strong communications skills.
- U.S. Citizenship and an active DoD Security Clearance, or the ability to obtain one.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., political science, international relations, national security, engineering, physics, computer science) from an accredited university or college.
- Knowledge of USSTRATCOM mission areas.
- Experience executing classified research and familiarity with DoD security regulations.
- Experience executing research within a university or college higher education construct.
- Experience with wargaming development and execution.
- Active DoD Security Clearance.
Additional Information:
- This position requires work in secure facilities and handling of classified information.
- Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Travel may be required for sponsor meetings, collaboration, and site visits.
Benefits:
- Health
- Dental
- Vision
- ER-paid Life
- Vol Life (employee, spouse, child(ren))
- AD&D
- LTD
- 403b (retirement), with employer matching
About NSRI:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) is a DoD-designated UARC affiliated with the University of Nebraska. NSRI provides innovative R&D and technical expertise in support of national security. UARCs operate as long-term, strategic partners with the federal government, performing essential work that cannot be competitively outsourced.
This position represents an opportunity to serve the public interest by contributing to the security and resilience of the nation.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
NSRI is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor. We comply with all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action in employment.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
