The National Security Division seeks an experienced defense budget analyst to be the point person on defense budget issues and to lead studies that range in duration from a few weeks to many months. Specific areas of responsibility include analyzing and writing about the programs and activities contained in the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) budget and projecting trends in funding levels—particularly for the operation and maintenance (O&M) account. Tasks include gathering relevant information from DoD and other sources, analyzing that information, and preparing reports, testimony, and briefings to communicate the findings. Recent studies include CBO’s annual analysis of the long-term implications of DoD’s budget and procurement plans, an analysis of the causes of growth in DoD’s budget, and a primer on growth in DoD’s O&M account. Potential future topics span a variety of defense budget issues, including in-depth analysis of the causes of growth in the O&M account and approaches that DoD might take to operate in a constrained budgetary environment. Qualifications Candidates should have a Ph.D. or a master’s degree plus at least two years of experience analyzing national security issues. Degrees in economics, public policy, national security studies, the physical sciences, or engineering are preferable, although candidates with advanced degrees in allied fields such as statistics, operations research, applied mathematics, or political science will also be considered. Preferred candidates will have experience conducting quantitative analyses of national security issues—especially those related to the high-level defense budget—working independently, leading studies, and documenting their findings. Experience in a service- or department-level program or budgeting office and some knowledge of and familiarity with DoD’s weapon-system acquisition process would also be desirable. Candidates must be analytical, creative, and self-motivated. 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 nontechnical and nonacademic audiences. To that end, candidates must be excellent writers. A proven record of publications is a plus, particularly publications aimed at a general audience. The ability to work with Congressional staff and develop relationships with experts within DoD, think tanks, and private industry is essential. Candidates must have or be able to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance. 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 nontechnical audience), salary history, and contact information for three references online at www.cbo.gov/careers by June 22, 2015 to ensure consideration. Only complete applications will be considered. 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 CBO's  Veterans' Preference Eligibility Form together with the supporting documentation specified on that form within two weeks of applying (or no later than the deadline if the position has a deadline) 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