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 at $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 data management, data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence 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, data engineering, data analysis, project management, and human capital development.
Based in Omaha, NE, this position is part of a government funded project and employment is contingent upon continued client funding and performance.
Priority Consideration: In alignment with our commitment to staff development and internal mobility, current NSRI employees will be given priority consideration for this vacancy, provided they meet the minimum qualifications. Internal candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
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 expertise in data engineering and data analysis to research efforts:
- Develops basic project management controls and tools
- Conducts literature reviews
- Develops and analyzes data systems
- Assesses and evaluates technical requirements
- Develops and analyzes AI/ML tools
- Performs modeling and simulation (e.g., MATLAB / Simulink, Python)
- Develops prototypes to advance USSTRATCOM missions
- Conducts software and data 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 field related to data management or data analysis (e.g., information systems, data science, computer science, engineering, physics, etc.) from an accredited university or college.
- Experience working as part of a multi-functional team in an office or laboratory environment.
- Strong communications skills.
- U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in a field related to data management or data analysis (e.g., information systems, data science, computer science, engineering, physics, etc.) from an accredited university or college.
- Knowledge of USSTRATCOM mission areas.
- Experience supporting USSTRATCOM mission areas in previous employment or internship.
- 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.
- Experience with data engineering, database maintenance, and/or machine learning
- Experience with developing and prototyping databases using modern data platforms and architectures
- Desire to learn about new systems, tools, and technologies to support changing needs and mission requirements
- 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.
