OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information. The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a key analyst and recognized expert performing professional and scientific work requiring the design, development, and adaptation of mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques and provide advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative courses of action.

Major duties

• Duty 1: Performs a broad range of operations research analyses assignments entailing unique problems, creativity, innovative use of techniques, advanced approaches, and/or new technologies.
• Duty 2: Utilizes scientific inquiry in the independent development of mathematical models and computer programs to evaluate and predict the ability to support assigned projects, studies, or problems,
• Duty 3: Provides technical guidance, advisory support, and assistance on an entire project and/or major phases for broad and varied operations.
• Duty 4: Attends meetings, conferences, briefings, and seminars related to program planning, advanced technologies, and support system concepts.
• Duty 5: Accomplishes professional development and maintains technical proficiency.

Qualifications

Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions. Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: 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. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes 1) applying new analytical developments, methodologies, and research findings to broad studies of an unprecedented nature; 2) designing, building, and using complex, sophisticated models to simulate real-world environments of many variables; 3) utilizing analytical, mathematical or statistical theories, principles, concepts, methods, and techniques to provide guidance concerning the validity of assumptions made and the criteria to evaluate alternatives; 4) coordinating projects that are characterized by high visibility, unusual urgency, or critical.; AND 5) identifying actual or potential problem areas, trends, and/or similar factors to improve program operations and management systems. NOTE: Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-­grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Knowledge of a broad range of operations research analysis techniques and possession of analytical abilities. 2. Knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions. 3. Skill to negotiate and/or defend findings and program support concepts. 4. Ability to lead study teams; originate new ideas, projects, and methodologies; and execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time constraints. 5. Ability to develop and utilize appropriate data collection techniques and design, build, and use models and simulation techniques. 6. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; negotiate complex issues; and maintain good working relations. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcripts with the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.