Human Factors Researcher

Contribute to human systems integration (HSI) research over a diverse project portfolio in the national defense domain. Make a tangible impact for mission-driven work with great pay and benefits.

This position is in IDA’s Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. OED collaborates with civilian government agencies to independently test and evaluate military technology to provide our warfighters with safe, effective, and usable military systems and ensure taxpayer funds are used appropriately.

What is the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA)?

IDA, as a non-profit, federally-funded research and development center, is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise.

What does HSI research look like in OED at IDA?

• Plan, design, observe, and analyze scientifically rigorous HSI evaluations while balancing varied stakeholder requirements and constraints.
• Communicate project nuances and analytical results via writing and presentations to diverse audiences, including government and military leadership, system end-users, and technical audiences without HSI expertise.
• Develop or adapt HSI methods to address challenges posed by emerging technology (e.g. AI) and complex environments alongside various time, monetary, and safety constraints.
• Provide HSI guidance and consultations to government sponsors and IDA researchers to inform HSI evaluations across diverse technologies, use cases, and environmental contexts.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of systems and end-users by attending test events across diverse technology applications (e.g., aviation, maritime, space, and cyber).
• Develop materials to advocate for end-users and educate the broader military testing community on HSI best practices.
• Contribute to strategic-level efforts to advocate for HSI best practices throughout technology lifecycles and identify HSI challenges posed by emerging technology.

What qualifications and skillsets do you need?

Required:

• A minimum of a Doctoral degree or a Master’s degree in one of the following fields coupled with relevant career experience in the government, military, or industry. We value diverse perspectives and expertise and will consider applicants from a wide array of disciplines, including:
• Human Factors (HF), Experimental and/or Quantitative Psychology fields, Decision Science, User Experience (UX), Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE), Industrial Systems Engineering (ISYE), or other relevant interdisciplinary programs.
• Proficiency with relevant HSI statistical methods (e.g., linear modeling, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling).
• Proficiency with at least one common statistical scripting language (i.e. R, Python).
• Availability to travel (approx. 10-25% time).
• Ability to obtain or currently holds a security clearance.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.

Preferred:

• Proficiency in survey methods (including development and validation).
• Experience consulting/advising groups in HSI design, methods, and analysis.

Why work at IDA?

• Competitive Salary and benefits, including diverse health insurance options, generous 11% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement.
• Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our Nation’s warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL).
• Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications.
• A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, partial telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours.
• Located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor, IDA's brand new Potomac Yard facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, workspaces and amenities, including a cafeteria, grab-n-go cafe and gym.
• Easy access to local dining and shopping, the Potomac Yard Metro stop (opening Fall 2022) and the Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $280/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?

• Complete the application and submit your resume.
• If you are selected to move forward in the interview process, the interview consists of three steps:
  • A short screening call with HR
  • A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers
  • A full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project

• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide the following:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted)
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • A writing sample