Operations Research Analyst - Audit Services Directorate

Operations Research Analyst - Audit Services Directorate

Department: Other Agencies and Independent Organizations

Location(s): Bethesda, Maryland

Salary Range: $121785 - $158322 Per Year

Job 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!

Major 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).

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.

How to Apply: To apply for this position, you must complete the online application and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date, 04/02/2026, to receive consideration. To begin, click Apply Online to access an online application. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account or you may need to create a new account. You will be taken to an online application. Complete the online application, verify the required documentation, and submit the application. You will receive an email notification when your application has been received for the announcement. To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account: https://secure.login.gov/, select the Application Status link, and then select the More Information link for this position. The Application Status page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and your responses submitted to the online application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. You are strongly urged to read and print the entire vacancy announcement.

Application Deadline: 2026-04-02