Operations Research Analyst - Audit Services Directorate

Summary Make an impact at the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG)! We're seeking a skilled Operations Research Analyst to lead complex analytical projects, apply advanced quantitative methods, and shape data-driven decisions that strengthen postal operations. Bring your expertise and voice to our team in Bethesda, MD! Learn more about this agency Duties About the Audit Services Directorate: The Audit Services directorate provides guidance and support to the Office of Audit, including budgeting, contracting, audit policies, quality assurance, data analysis, statistical sampling, audit reporting, training, strategic planning, project administration, and coordination with other OIG components. To learn more, visit: Office of Audit | About Us About the Position: The USPS OIG conducts performance audits and reviews of multiple Postal Service functional areas. As the Operations Research Analyst, you will provide expert level advice in the area of operations research analysis. Serving as a trouble-shooter, providing authoritative advice and guidance on problems not susceptible to treatment by accepted methods; recommendations and decisions are characterized by breadth and importance. As a successful candidate, you will have relevant experience in: Performing scientific work that involves designing, developing, and adapting mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques. Developing and applying quantitative methods in support of agency mission. Coordinating and synthesizing quantitative data to analyze the composite cost benefit of operations or systems. Planning, organizing, and conducting research on complex operations research analysis issues that involve major areas of uncertainty in approach, methodology, or interpretation to identify appropriate solutions. Analyzing operational research problems and providing advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative solutions to these problems. Participating or leading meetings with OIG and USPS officials to communicate results of work. Maintaining liaison with other offices, agencies and other appropriate organizations as needed. The duties and responsibilities associated with this position may vary based upon the agency's needs at the time of hire. The preceding description of major duties and responsibilities is only intended to give applicants a general overview of the expectations. Compensation: The USPS OIG is Excepted Service and uses a Pay Banding system, which is equivalent to the Federal GS scale. Grade and salary determinations will be made based upon a candidate's education and professional experience. This position is being advertised at the Journey Band level, equivalent to a GS-13. The salary range for this position is $121,785.00 - $158,322.00. The salary figures include locality pay. For locality table specifics, visit: OPM's General Schedule (GS). Requirements Conditions of employment Must be a U.S. citizen. Must be able to pass a drug screening. Must be able to pass a background investigation. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Moderate Background Investigation (MBI) clearance. Must be able to obtain and maintain a government-issued credit card. May be required to successfully complete a 12-month probationary period. Qualifications Position Minimum Qualification Requirements You must meet all minimum qualifications listed below. Professional Experience Requirement: At least three (3) years of professional, full-time experience applying quantitative modeling, statistical analysis, and optimization techniques to support planning, decision-making, or risk assessment. Must have experience translating complex analytical findings into clear, actionable insights for organizational leadership or stakeholders. Must have experience collaborating with cross-functional teams (such as compliance, operational, or program groups) to improve process efficiency or control effectiveness. Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree in operations research, or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science or a closely related quantitative field in audit, finance, or government. (You must submit transcripts from accredited college or university) Desirable Qualifications Skilled at translating complex analytical results into clear, actionable insights for senior leadership. Proven ability to work with large datasets and collaborate with audit, compliance, and operational teams to enhance audit effectiveness is highly desirable. An advance degree or certification Knowledge of Postal Service operations Evaluation Factors | How you will be evaluated: You must have the experience, knowledge, and skills as listed in each of the evaluation factors listed below. Include your major accomplishments relevant to the position requirements and factors in your resume. Failure to demonstrate that you meet all the evaluation factor requirements as listed below will result in a score of zero (0), an ineligible status, and you will not be referred for further consideration. Advanced knowledge of theories, concepts, principles, and practices of financial, mathematical, statistical, and operations research sufficient to sufficient to complete assignments that involve initiating, applying, and planning major developmental studies. Skill in intermediate to advanced execution and control of projects that represent an important segment of the agency's operating programs and/or projects. Ability to evaluate the data resulting from applying mathematical or statistical tools, models, methods, and techniques. Ability to provide significant and innovative recommendations for advancing programs and/or methods. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Education Education must be accredited by an institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Applicants can verify accreditation here: www.ed.gov. Special Instructions for Candidates with Foreign Education: Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to that gained in U.S. education programs. You must submit all necessary documents to a private U.S. credential evaluation service to interpret equivalency of your education against courses given in U.S. accredited colleges and universities. For further information visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/. Additional information Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Status: Exempt. (Nonexempt employees are entitled to overtime pay; Exempt employees are not). Reasonable Accommodations This agency provides Reasonable Accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require accommodations for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please send an email to [email protected]. The decision on granting an accommodation request will be made on a case-by-case basis. Expand Hide  additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits. USPS OIG Benefits Overview Pay is only part of the compensation you will earn working for the USPS OIG As a result of the passage of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 (PSRA), USPS employees (including USPS OIG) and retirees will transition from the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program to the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program effective January 1, 2025. Detailed information about eligibility and enrollment will be provided upon hiring. For more information, visit the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program website at https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/pshb/. Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Long-Term Care Insurances and Flexible Spending Options For information, please visit https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/Guide-Me/Federal-Employees/. Visit the 'Guide to PSHB Plans' for a comprehensive PSHB plan comparison tool and an educational tool that explains how Medicare B works: https://www.checkbook.org/pshb/ Retirement and Thrift Savings For more information about these programs see opm.gov/retirement-center and tsp.gov. Flexible Work Schedules USPS OIG offers a range of family-friendly flexibilities including flexible work schedules and employee assistance programs. Leave and Holidays In addition to eleven (11) paid holidays each year, you will earn thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave and thirteen (13) to twenty-six (26) paid vacation days each year depending on your years of service. Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.