PRIMARY PURPOSE
These positions are located at NAS Pt. Mugu, CA and Edwards AFB, CA.
CNA is hiring for Associate Research Analysts to join their Advanced Technology Assessment (ATA) Division. Staff at this level will provide research, analytical, and technical support on a range of projects.
As part of the Department of the Navy’s Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), CNA’s Advanced Technology Assessments (ATA) division provides analysis that evaluates the military utility and efficacy of emerging defense technologies and prototypes, operational test and evaluation of DoD programs of record, and tactics development and resourcing decisions for existing naval aircraft.
Analyses from ATA help the Navy make data-informed resourcing, training, and modernization decisions for new and existing defense technologies, with a focus on naval aircraft. Our research supports defense innovation programs to ensure operational effectiveness and lethality and to maintain the technological superiority of US military forces. ATA also contributes independent analyses to the testing of new aviation systems and the development of tactics to optimize the effectiveness of existing aircraft.
CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem solving process. Our employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR DUTIES
1. Under close supervision, conducts research and analysis that meets CNA’s quality standards on focused, structured questions. Can effectively apply standard, routine, and well-established analytic methodologies. With minimal direction and supervision, routinely produces analysis that is logical and traceable as well as objective and unbiased. Shows some analytic creativity.
2. Develops rudimentary institutional knowledge of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues.
3. Contributes productively and harmoniously to the work of others; treats everyone respectfully, professionally and fairly. Keeps others informed. Actively engages with colleagues and works with manager to identify opportunities for collaborations within team and division. Seeks out others working on similar topics.
4. Supports business development efforts and/or marketing activities by conducting background research and helping prepare materials under the direction of more experienced staff.
5. Limited interaction with sponsors/clients and their study POCs under the supervision of an experienced colleague.
6. Impact largely confined to individual project work.
7. Demonstrates basic, effective communication skills, both written and oral. Can effectively present work to colleagues and CNA managers.
8. Works under close supervision on focused, well-structured pieces of projects.
9. Exhibits a positive attitude in interactions with colleagues and clients/sponsors. Serves as an effective member of project or research team by supporting leadership as needed.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
1. Education: Minimum master’s degree in science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), aeronautical engineering or equivalent experience
2. Experience: Typical minimum requirements Master’s & 0+ years of experience in research and analysis.
3. Skills: Facility with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Access, Powerpoint); Ability to manage databases; Ability to gather and organize information on policies, systems, problems, or procedures; Strong critical thinking and organizational skills; Basic knowledge of research techniques; Ability to plan and organize tasks effectively, both as an individual contributor and as a team member; Basic, effective communication skills.
4. Remote/Hybrid Work Eligibility: This position is not eligible for telecommuting or hybrid work arrangements. Occasional flexible work schedule may be possible at the discretion of the Supervisor.
5. Relocation: Relocation assistance is provided
6. Other: An active final Secret security clearance is required at time of hire and the ability to maintain a security clearance.
Skills Required
- Master’s degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, aeronautical engineering, or equivalent experience
- At least 0 years of research and analysis experience with a master’s degree
- Facility with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Access, and PowerPoint
- Ability to manage databases
- Ability to gather and organize information on policies, systems, problems, or procedures
- Strong critical-thinking and organizational skills
- Basic knowledge of research techniques
- Ability to plan and organize tasks independently and as a team member
- Basic, effective written and oral communication skills
- Active final Secret security clearance at time of hire and ability to maintain it
- U.S. citizenship for positions requiring access to classified information
CNA Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about CNA and has not been reviewed or approved by CNA.
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Retirement Support — Retirement contributions are described as notably strong, with a 401(k) featuring company contributions. Examples include an automatic employer contribution plus a dollar‑for‑dollar match on employee deferrals, supporting long‑term savings.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Paid time off is described as generous, with PTO purchase options and paid family leave highlighted. Examples cite 3–4 weeks of PTO for full‑time employees alongside standard paid holidays.
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Parental & Family Support — Family‑building and caregiving benefits include paid family leave, adoption/surrogacy reimbursement, and LGBTQ+‑inclusive advocacy resources. These provisions complement an Employee Assistance Program for broader support.
CNA Insights
What We Do
CNA is one of the largest U.S. commercial property and casualty insurance companies. Backed by more than 125 years of experience, CNA provides a broad range of standard and specialized insurance products and services for businesses and professionals in the U.S., Canada and Europe. As a company of allies, we understand the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive culture for all employees. Our eight Employee Resource Groups elevate the voices of underrepresented groups and champion critical DEI initiatives in the workplace and beyond. We strive to promote an environment of inclusion and continuously work to ensure all employees feel valued and respected.
Why Work With Us
CNA knows the importance of having the tools you need to expand your expertise and develop your career. With a variety of cross-discipline and cross-functional opportunities, CNA provides you with the tools and resources needed to customize your career path and understand what is needed to be effective in your role.
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