Senior Staff Operational Analyst - Ranger (R6385)

The role

This role analyzes the operational effectiveness of Shield AI's autonomous aircraft systems. You will build and run simulations and wargaming efforts, and work with engineering and defense stakeholders on design trade-offs and mission capabilities.

What you will do

• Develop and execute operational analysis strategies for autonomous aircraft in military scenarios.
• Lead modeling, simulation, and wargaming to evaluate performance, mission impact, and survivability in contested environments.
• Work with engineering teams to turn operational insights into design decisions and system improvements.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses under varying operational conditions and threats.
• Build high-fidelity mission models using tools such as AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, and Python.
• Analyze force-on-force engagements, sensor effectiveness, and autonomy-driven decision-making.
• Work with DoD stakeholders, operators, and warfighters to align system capabilities with mission needs.
• Write and present technical reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior leadership, customers, and government agencies.
• Support concept of operations (CONOPS) development for new AI-driven aircraft capabilities.
• Identify emerging threats and operational challenges so Shield AI's systems stay ahead of adversary capabilities.

Required qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in operational analysis, modeling and simulation, or military operations research.
• Expertise in military mission analysis, operational planning, and wargaming methodologies.
• Proficiency with AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python, or other modeling and simulation tools for aerospace and defense.
• Deep understanding of air combat, ISR, electronic warfare, or autonomous systems in contested environments.
• Experience working with DoD stakeholders, warfighters, and government agencies.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret large datasets and turn findings into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and briefing skills, including presenting to senior leadership, customers, and military personnel.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile environment with shifting priorities.
• Active Secret clearance, or ability to obtain one.

Nice to have

• Prior experience in force-on-force analysis, CONOPS development, or military campaign modeling.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, JCIDS, and military operational testing.
• Experience integrating AI-driven decision-making algorithms into operational analysis frameworks.
• Prior military service or experience working with U.S. Air Force, Navy, or Special Operations Forces.

Benefits

• Benefits package for full-time regular employees.
• Bonus for full-time regular employees.
• Equity for full-time regular employees.
• Temporary benefits package, applicable after 60 days of employment, for temporary employees.

Before you apply

• All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.
• Compensation depends on skill set, experience level, licenses and certifications, and work location.
• Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.

About the company

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company that builds intelligent systems to protect service members and civilians. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation technologies.