The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a not-for-profit corporation that operates three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers serving the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Department of Homeland Security, Unified Commands and Defense Agencies in addressing important national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise.

This position provides automation support to one or more IDA Directorate(s).  The incumbent, working either individually or as a team member, assists supported staff members in assessing and defining their data processing requirements. Analyzes designs, develops, tests, implements and documents new application systems; modifies and enhances existing programs and systems; provides end-user training in the use of applications; and provides system-related operational support.  May be required to serve as Database Administrator for one or more Database Management System(s).

• Works with the Directorate’s staff to identify, define and document the need for development, conversion or modification of application system software.  Develops and proposes cost effective solutions.  Uses tools, such as prototyping to define and interpret requirements and to document results.
• Serves as project leader for development and maintenance of IDA custom business systems. Working from documented requirements, prepares design specifications; participates in design reviews; develops structured programs and systems; troubleshoots and corrects system problems; performs comprehensive unit and limited system testing and prepares and maintains technical and user documentation per standard.  Such systems are moderately complex, frequently involving multi-user database technology in order to provide an effective and appropriate solution.  Ensures compliance with configuration management.
• Serves as Database Administrator.  Sets up new users, new databases, and privileges; acts as  liaison with the vendor, installs new software and enhancements; provides consulting and training; ensures that the DBMS is configured to optimize performance and capabilities.  Designs and implements controls to protect data from unauthorized access. 
• Serves as project leader for maintenance of major acquired systems that have significant support or interface requirements to be met by IDA.  Acts as liaison between users and vendors for the installation and maintenance of new software releases and modifications.  Assists vendors in identifying and isolating problems with their installed software, and installs and tests vendor updates and fixes.  Builds custom interfaces to provide connectivity with other IDA systems. Ensures compliance with configuration management procedures in all software-related activities.
• Trains users in the operation of new application software.  Provides users with access to software and corporate data where authorized. Designs and implements software and procedures for converting mainframe data for use with a microcomputer and assists in up-loading and down-loading data between systems.
• Performs other duties as needed.

• BS/BA degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems or related area; or equivalent experience.
• Four years experience in the analysis, development and implementation of applications software.
• Experience in analysis, design, development and implementation of computer systems.
• Experience with languages such as Visual Basic, Scripting languages, and/or HTML.
• Experience with computers running MS Windows 2000/2003/XP/Vista in a network environment.
• Experience with Client/Server, Graphical User Interface tools like MS Visual Studio and one or more SQL based relational database management systems like MS SQLServer; ability to understand and apply object-oriented concepts.
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with all levels of personnel.
• Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance. 

IDA offers a competitive salary, an enviable benefits package, and a superior professional environment in a park-like setting. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. U.S. citizenship is required.

The Institute for Defense Analyses is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

Our preferred method of receiving your resume is via email. If you are unable to email your resume, you may fax it to us. Resumes and inquiries should be sent to:

Institute for Defense Analyses
Attn: Employment Office
4850 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22311
Fax Number: (240) 282-8314
Email: resumes@ida.org