Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia
Research Analyst jobs in Virginia are consistently active, with strong demand from entry-level through senior roles concentrated in defense and intelligence contracting, federal policy research, financial services, and healthcare analytics. The densest hiring is in the Northern Virginia corridor, Richmond, and Arlington, where major employers such as Booz Allen Hamilton, Leidos, and the MITRE Corporation maintain large research-facing workforces. The most sought-after specialties are quantitative and data analysis, policy research, and market intelligence. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 67+ Research Analyst jobs
Air Warfare Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support the Department of War's assessment of the operational effectiveness, suitability, survivability, and lethality of Air Warfare-related Major Defense Acquisition Programs. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that provides objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities:
The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational evaluation of airborne early warning, fighter, and bomber aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, spectrum warfare systems, and battle management systems. The position involves analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing and associated modeling and simulation activity, and providing an independent assessment to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation within the Department of War. Close interaction with officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of tests is required. Travel is required.
Required Qualifications:
-
Educational Requirements:
- PhD in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or...
- PhD in a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 4+ years of operational or commercial experience or...
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 6+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Candidates must have demonstrated computational and data analysis skills.
- Proficiency in Python, R, or similar data analytics tools and software.
- Experience with military or civilian aircraft operations, acquisition, or testing is strongly preferred.
- Experience with advanced aviation technologies, such as low observable technologies, air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, advanced sensors, or data links, is desired.
- Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for obtaining a TS/SCI clearance. Having a current TS/SCI is desired.
- Travel is required, up to 25%.
Why work at IDA?
- Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% 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 warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, 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 and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
- Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
- Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
Air Warfare Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support the Department of War's assessment of the operational effectiveness, suitability, survivability, and lethality of Air Warfare-related Major Defense Acquisition Programs. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that provides objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities:
The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational evaluation of airborne early warning, fighter, and bomber aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, spectrum warfare systems, and battle management systems. The position involves analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing and associated modeling and simulation activity, and providing an independent assessment to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation within the Department of War. Close interaction with officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of tests is required. Travel is required.
Required Qualifications:
-
Educational Requirements:
- PhD in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or...
- PhD in a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 4+ years of operational or commercial experience or...
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 6+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Candidates must have demonstrated computational and data analysis skills.
- Proficiency in Python, R, or similar data analytics tools and software.
- Experience with military or civilian aircraft operations, acquisition, or testing is strongly preferred.
- Experience with advanced aviation technologies, such as low observable technologies, air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, advanced sensors, or data links, is desired.
- Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for obtaining a TS/SCI clearance. Having a current TS/SCI is desired.
- Travel is required, up to 25%.
Why work at IDA?
- Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% 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 warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, 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 and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
- Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
- Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
See All 67 Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Analyst JobsResearch Analyst Jobs by City in Virginia
Where Virginia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Analyst Job Market in Virginia
A snapshot from current Virginia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Virginia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research analyst jobs across Virginia.
- Bachelor's degree in economics, political science, statistics, or a related analytical field
- Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Python, SAS, or SPSS for data analysis
- Experience designing and executing primary or secondary research studies
- Strong written communication skills for producing reports, briefs, and presentations
- Familiarity with federal data sources, government databases, or industry market data
- Ability to obtain or maintain a security clearance for defense and intelligence roles
Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research analyst in Virginia?
Most research analyst roles in Virginia require a bachelor's degree in a quantitative or social-science field, though many federal contracting and policy positions prefer a master's degree. Virginia has no state-issued license specific to research analysts, so hiring decisions center on demonstrated analytical skills, relevant coursework, and domain knowledge. Candidates targeting defense or intelligence work should be prepared for the security clearance process, while those in financial research may pursue CFA candidacy to strengthen their profile.
How much do research analysts make in Virginia?
Research analysts in Virginia earn a median of about $92,930 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $52,240 for the lowest 10% to over $148,700 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire research analysts in Virginia?
Employers hiring research analysts in Virginia right now include Institute for Defense Analyses, Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA), and AMERICAN SYSTEMS, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Virginia's concentration of federal contractors and government-adjacent think tanks means many of these positions involve policy, defense, or public-sector research.
Which Virginia cities have the most research analyst jobs?
Arlington, Alexandria, and Quantico have the most research analyst openings in Virginia. Northern Virginia and Arlington drive volume through their dense cluster of federal agencies, defense contractors, and consulting firms, while Richmond anchors hiring in financial services, health systems, and state government research functions.
Are there remote research analyst jobs in Virginia?
Yes, and more than most fields. Research analysis is fundamentally desk-based and data-driven, making it well suited to remote and hybrid arrangements. About 44% of research analyst openings tied to Virginia are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting broad employer flexibility for this role. Secondary research, data modeling, and report writing are the tasks most consistently performed off-site, while stakeholder interviews and classified-environment work typically require in-person presence.
How can I get hired as a research analyst in Virginia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to analyst internship or junior analyst programs at large Virginia federal contractors such as Booz Allen Hamilton, MITRE, or Leidos, all of which recruit new graduates. Adjacent roles like research assistant, data coordinator, or policy assistant at Virginia universities, state agencies, or think tanks in the Richmond or Northern Virginia area provide a direct bridge. Building a portfolio of independent data projects or obtaining a Google Data Analytics or similar certificate strengthens candidacy before the first full-time application.
Where can I find and apply to research analyst jobs in Virginia?
You can find and apply to research analyst jobs in Virginia on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring in the state right now. Find roles that fit your experience and specialization and apply directly to the ones that match.
See All 67 Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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