The National Security Division seeks an experienced defense analyst to work on issues of current legislative interest to the Congress. Specific areas of responsibility would include military space systems; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); communications; and cyber security. Past studies in those areas have analyzed military space-based radar, the Army’s wireless communications programs, future space launch systems, options for upgrading military weather satellites, and options for upgrading the Global Positioning System. Potential future topics for analysis include options for using commercial imagery satellites, military space systems, and ISR architectues. Qualifications Candidates should have a PhD (or equivalent experience), preferably in the physical sciences or engineering, although candidates with advanced degrees in allied fields such as statistics or applied mathematics may also be considered. The position requires at least five years of experience (excluding graduate school research) in conducting analyses on the topics listed above, working independently, and leading studies. Expertise in developing complex analytical and simulation models is a plus. Candidates must have a desire to work on defense budget issues; having some knowledge and familiarity with the defense budget and the defense acquisition process are also desirable. In addition, candidates must be willing to work in other areas related to defense or homeland security as needs arise.   CBO has very high standards for the accuracy, precision, clarity, and objectivity of its written work. CBO’s studies, even when discussing complex topics, must be readable by non-technical and non-academic audiences. To that end, candidates must be excellent writers and enjoy writing for such audiences. The ability to work with Congressional staff and develop relationships with experts within the Department of Defense, think tanks, and private industry is also essential. Candidates must have or be able to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance; compartmentalized clearances are desirable and may be required for particular projects. Salary and Benefits Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with experience, education, and other qualifications. CBO offers excellent benefits and an appealing work environment.   How to Apply Please submit a cover letter, résumé, brief writing sample (preferably one that demonstrates your ability to communicate to a non-technical audience), salary history, and contact information for three (3) references online. There is no closing date for this position-it is open until CBO receives sufficient number of applications from qualified candidates. This position is governed by the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act, as made applicable by the Congressional Accountability Act, as amended.  Because this position is covered by the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act, the following categories of people may be eligible for preference in the hiring process relative to other applicants: veterans who have separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after serving on active duty in the armed forces during a war, in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized, or during particular defined periods; disabled veterans; and the mother, spouse, or unmarried widow or widower of certain veterans.   To claim this preference, an applicant must identify himself or herself as eligible for veterans' preference in the Self-Identification for Veterans' Preference section of the application and must complete and submit a Veterans' Preference Eligibility Form together with the supporting documentation specified on that form within two weeks of applying to veoa@cbo.gov . Applicants may obtain a copy of CBO's Veterans' Preference in Appointments policy by submitting a written request to careers@cbo.gov . Contact Nancy Fahey, Washington, DC, 202-226-2628, careers@cbo.gov EEO  M/F/V/D