JOE Listings (Job Openings for Economists)
August 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026
CNA Corporation
Position Title/Short Description
Full Text of JOE Listing:
CNA is hiring for the role of Research Analyst (Economist). This role is a part of the Resources and Force Readiness (RFR) division in CNA. RFR is seeking an applied microeconomist. Experience, background, or interest in the physical sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry, or computer science) is a plus.
Applicants should possess or be nearing completion of a PhD in economics and have an interest in applied, policy-oriented research and the ability to write, speak, and present to both technical and non-technical audiences in a clear and concise format. Applicants also should have:
• Strong analytic curiosity and creativity;
• The ability to operate both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Strong critical thinking skills;
• Knowledge of research techniques;
• Strong planning and organizational skills;
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; and
• The ability to interact positively and somewhat independently with clients.
Strong consideration will be given to applicants with skills in Python and R.
As a Research Analyst, you will provide analysis to help develop and evaluate policies, practices, and programs that increase the effectiveness and efficiency of personnel, budgets, and other assets. Major research areas include workforce management and warfighter readiness, energy, health analytics and medical readiness, resource allocation, and facilities infrastructure. Whether through empirical research, modeling and simulation, or combined quantitative and qualitative approaches, we provide our sponsors with objective analyses that directly affect policy and practice. Recent hires who have advanced rapidly have exhibited a strong capacity and interest in applying their skills across a variety of complex problems.
CNA is a nonprofit organization specializing in providing objective analyses to government agencies and foundations. We have conducted such research for the Navy and Marine Corps for over 75 years, and much of our work continues to be with the Department of Defense. Applicant will provide direct support to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment, the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Readiness and Logistics, and both U.S. Fleet Forces Command and U.S. Pacific Fleet Command. CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages collaboration throughout the problem-solving process. Our employees use scientific, data-driven approaches to develop effective solutions that help clients manage their programs.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and be able to obtain and maintain an active secret security clearance. Headquarters is located in Arlington, VA; on-site presence is a requirement.
*Start date is flexible
Application Requirements:
• Cover Letter - Why are you interested in this position? What are your relevant skills and experiences, and why would you be a valuable asset to CNA?
• CV
• Transcripts - Graduate and undergraduate transcripts. If you have issues uploading your transcripts, you may email them to Michelle Jones at JonesM@ cna.org .
• Writing Sample - Please include a job market paper
• Three (3) Letters of Recommendation - Please email PDF copies directly to Michelle Jones at JonesM@ cna.org .
Application Process:
• To be considered, we invite you to apply online at https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/cna/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/6202
• Applications due by November 30, 2025
• Interviews will be conducted in mid-December 2025
Application Requirements:
- External Application URL and Instructions Below
- Letters of Reference Instructions Below
Reference Instructions:
Application Instructions:
Freqently Asked Questions
McLean, VA hosts a concentrated pool of economic research roles, yet CNA Corporation’s specialized focus on defense-oriented applied microeconomics sets it apart. Candidates with interdisciplinary skills in physics or computer science often find a unique advantage, reflecting a moderately competitive but niche hiring environment.
While a PhD in economics is essential, certifications in data science, Python programming, or advanced statistical methods can strengthen applications in McLean, VA’s research sector. Such credentials align well with CNA Corporation's emphasis on quantitative and qualitative analysis, boosting a candidate’s appeal locally.
Mastery of applied microeconomics combined with strong analytical creativity is critical. Proficiency in Python and R enhances data modeling capabilities, while effective communication ensures insights reach both technical and non-technical stakeholders, a must-have for impactful policy research roles.
CNA Corporation offers rapid advancement for analysts demonstrating versatility across complex topics such as warfighter readiness and resource allocation. Engaging in multidisciplinary projects can accelerate promotions and broaden expertise within defense and government policy research domains.
Unlike typical economic roles, this position merges microeconomic policy research with defense-related operational challenges. The focus on energy, health analytics, and military readiness, alongside client-facing interactions with high-level naval officials, creates a distinct blend of public sector impact and scientific inquiry.
Collaborating through the American Economic Association amplifies the reach of CNA Corporation’s studies by connecting with a broad network of economics professionals. This synergy enhances policy influence and access to cutting-edge economic discourse, enriching both research quality and professional visibility.
Expect involvement in projects that integrate rigorous economic analysis with policy development for defense and government agencies. The association’s academic ties likely encourage publication and dissemination of findings, fostering a balance between applied research and scholarly contribution.
For PhD-level research analysts at CNA Corporation in McLean, VA, salaries typically range between $95,000 and $130,000 annually. This reflects both the specialized nature of applied microeconomic research and the region’s competitive government contracting market.
Contract CNA positions are moderately available in McLean, VA, often facilitated by specialized staffing agencies focusing on healthcare and government contracts. These agencies provide placement support, credential verification, and sometimes training to align candidates with client-specific needs.
Local agencies near McLean tend to emphasize personalized candidate assessments and closer employer relationships, offering tailored job matches. In contrast, national firms may provide broader placement options but less individualized service, impacting the speed and fit of CNA employment.
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