# Senior Staff Engineer, Operations Analysis (R4487)
**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Washington, DC
**Salary:** $181K-$271K
**Experience:** 10+ years
**Skills:** Afsim, Stk, MATLAB, Python, Wargaming, Modeling & Simulation, Force-On-Force Analysis, Conops, Air Combat, Isr
**Posted:** 2026-01-21
> Leads modeling, simulation, and wargaming to evaluate autonomous aircraft performance, survivability, and mission impact in military scenarios. Collaborates with engineering and DoD stakeholders using tools like AFSIM, STK, MATLAB, and Python; requires 10+ years experience and security clearance.
## Job Description
## 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.

## Required Qualifications
- **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.
- 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.
- Active **Secret** or **Top-Secret** clearance (or ability to obtain one).

## Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in force-on-force analysis, **CONOPS** development, or military campaign modeling.
- Experience integrating **AI-driven** decision-making algorithms into operational analysis frameworks.
**Apply:** https://hotfix.jobs/jobs/senior-staff-engineer-operations-analysis-r4487-at-shield-ai-95c1d538-10b8-4445-8d26-b07e17d00108
**Canonical:** https://hotfix.jobs/jobs/senior-staff-engineer-operations-analysis-r4487-at-shield-ai-95c1d538-10b8-4445-8d26-b07e17d00108