The Department of the Air Force is accepting applications for Operations Research Analyst positions through its PALACE Acquire (PAQ) Program. This career development program is designed for current students and recent graduates who are interested in applying mathematics, statistics, data analysis, and operations research techniques to solve real-world challenges within the federal government.
Successful candidates will enter a structured three-year training program that provides professional development, annual salary increases, and a pathway to a permanent federal career.
About the PALACE Acquire Program
The PALACE Acquire Program is a formal career training initiative that prepares entry-level professionals for long-term careers within the Air Force civilian workforce. Participants receive hands-on experience, mentorship, and technical training while working on meaningful projects that support Air Force operations and decision-making.
Upon successful completion of the training plan, participants are placed into permanent positions.
Position Details
Job Title: Operations Research Analyst
Organization: Department of the Air Force
Program: PALACE Acquire (PAQ)
Employment Type: Permanent Federal Position Upon Program Completion
Career Levels: GS-07 and GS-09
Work Schedule: Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities May Be Available
Location: Air Force installations throughout the United States
Key Responsibilities for GS-07 Positions
Support higher-level analysts with assigned projects and research activities.
Collect, organize, and analyze data from multiple sources.
Assist in evaluating operational processes and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Prepare reports summarizing project findings and accomplishments.
Apply fundamental operations research methods to assigned tasks.
Stay informed about emerging technologies and industry developments.
Key Responsibilities for GS-09 Positions
Plan and organize work assignments with limited supervision.
Assist senior analysts in solving operational and analytical problems.
Analyze data from various sources to support decision-making efforts.
Prepare technical reports, presentations, and written summaries.
Apply operations research techniques to evaluate systems and processes.
Maintain knowledge of new analytical methods and professional developments.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Male applicants may be required to register with the Selective Service System.
Candidates must meet federal employment suitability requirements.
A one-year probationary period is required.
Selected candidates may be required to relocate during or after training.
Positions may require Secret, Top Secret, or Special Sensitive security clearances.
Random drug testing may apply.
Education Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following basic education requirements:
A degree in Operations Research.
Or
At least 24 semester hours in a combination of:
Operations Research
Mathematics
Statistics
Probability
Mathematical Logic
Science
Other courses requiring substantial college-level mathematics or statistics
At least three semester hours must be in Calculus.
GS-07 Qualification Requirements
Applicants must have completed or be completing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
In addition, candidates must meet Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) requirements through one of the following:
A cumulative GPA of 2.95 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
A GPA of 2.95 or higher based on coursework completed during the final two years of study.
A GPA of 3.45 or higher in the major field of study.
GS-09 Qualification Requirements
Applicants must have completed two years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master’s degree or equivalent graduate degree.
Candidates must also meet one of the following GPA requirements:
A cumulative GPA of 2.95 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
A GPA of 2.95 or higher based on coursework completed during the final two years of study.
A GPA of 3.45 or higher in the major field of study.
Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of operations research principles and analytical methods.
Ability to evaluate complex problems and recommend practical solutions.
Strong quantitative and critical-thinking skills.
Ability to conduct research and identify meaningful patterns in data.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with computer systems and common software applications.
Student and Recent Graduate Eligibility
The announcement is open to:
Current students enrolled full-time at accredited colleges or universities.
Students who have completed at least one year of their academic program.
Recent graduates who earned a degree within the past two years.
Veterans who may qualify under extended recent graduate eligibility provisions.
Benefits and Incentives
Annual salary increases during the training program.
Potential recruitment incentives.
Potential relocation incentives.
Possible student loan repayment assistance.
Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
Permanent career placement upon successful completion of training.
Required Application Documents
Completed online application.
Resume not exceeding two pages.
Academic transcripts from accredited institutions.
Professional licenses or certifications, if applicable.
Veterans’ preference documents, if applicable.
SF-50 documentation for current or former federal employees, if applicable.
Application Evaluation Process
Applicants will be evaluated based on their qualifications, education, resume, and supporting documents. Information provided in the application must accurately match supporting documentation.
Failure to provide required documents or inconsistent information may result in disqualification from consideration.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS website. Candidates should carefully complete the online questionnaire and upload all required documents before the closing date.
Resumes must include employment dates, hours worked per week, and detailed descriptions of duties and responsibilities. Federal employees should include pay plan, occupational series, and grade information when applicable.
Application Deadline
All application materials must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM Eastern Time on September 28, 2026.
Career Opportunity Summary
The Operations Research Analyst position offers an excellent entry point into a federal career for students and recent graduates with strong analytical and quantitative backgrounds. Through the PALACE Acquire Program, participants gain valuable professional experience, structured training, competitive benefits, and a clear pathway to long-term employment within the Department of the Air Force.