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From the employer's careers site First seen 25 Oct 2026

Senior Staff Operational Analyst - Ranger (R6385)

Shield AI Seattle, Washington On-site senior Full Time Employee

Salary

USD 225,000-340,000 per-year-salary

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Description

Shield AI is seeking an Operational Analyst to drive the modeling, simulation, and analysis of its autonomous aircraft systems. This role is pivotal in evaluating the mission effectiveness, survivability, and operational impact of next-gen UAS and other autonomous platforms.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute operational analysis strategies to assess the effectiveness of autonomous aircraft in real-world military scenarios.
  • Lead modeling, simulation, and wargaming efforts to evaluate system performance, mission impact, and survivability in contested environments.
  • Work closely with engineering teams to translate operational insights into design decisions and system improvements.
  • Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses to assess system performance under varying operational conditions and threats.
  • Utilize advanced modeling & simulation tools (e.g., AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, Python) to develop high-fidelity mission models.
  • Analyze force-on-force engagements, sensor effectiveness, and autonomy-driven decision-making to optimize mission success.
  • Collaborate with DoD stakeholders, operators, and warfighters to understand mission needs and align system capabilities with operational requirements.
  • Develop 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, ensuring Shield AI’s systems remain ahead of adversary capabilities.

Requirements

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

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience in force-on-force analysis, CONOPS development, or military campaign modeling.
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (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.
  • Active Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Skills

Required

Nice to have

  • force-on-force analysis
  • CONOPS development
  • military campaign modeling
  • DoD acquisition processes
  • JCIDS
  • AI-driven decision-making algorithms
  • Secret clearance

Ready to apply?

You apply with the employer directly. Their original posting is here: https://jobs.lever.co/shieldai/ed1da1b4-8ab6-45ec-b628-3b8ff30822a5

Apply on Shield AI