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Operations Research Analyst

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
This job announcement has closed

Summary

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OTHER IRS CAREERS? Visit us on the web at www.jobs.irs.gov

Overview

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Hiring complete
Open date: 03/14/2023
Closed date: 03/20/2023
Location
5 vacancies in the following locations:
Work site options
Telework eligible
Yes—as determined by the agency policy.
Remote job
No
Relocation expenses reimbursed
No
Salary
$46,696 - $147,793 per year
Pay scale & grade
GS 7 - 13
Promotion potential
13
Pay scale and grade determines the salary of the job.
Work schedule
Full-time
Travel Required
Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Appointment type
Permanent
Occupations and job series
Supervisory status
No
Federal service type
This job is in the Competitive Service
Drug test
No
Security clearance
Not Required
Position sensitivity and risk
Moderate Risk (MR)
Jobs require a background check and some require a security clearance. The type depends on the job.
Background check type
Announcement number
23-11857035P-RAX-1515-7T13
Control number
712401800

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Duties

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WHAT IS THE RESEARCH, APPLIED ANALYTICS, AND STATISTICS (RAAS)DIVISION?
A description of the business units can be found at: https://www.jobs.irs.gov/about/who/business-divisions

Vacancies will be filled in the following specialty areas:
Research, Applied Analytics and Statistics Data Exploration and Testing; Modeling & Optimization

The following are the duties of this position at the full working level. If this vacancy includes more than one grade and you are selected at a lower grade level, you will have the opportunity to learn to perform these duties and receive training to help you grow in this position.

  • Independently conducts, leads, or participates in studies of complex problems requiring considerable ingenuity to determine the approach and identify the relevant factors for analysis. The incumbent is responsible for defining the problems involved, formulating the overall concepts, evaluating findings, and recommending solutions.
  • Selects and applies mathematics, economics, econometrics, and/or statistics appropriate to solving research problems, such as the development of computerized mathematical resource allocation models (e.g., simulation), regression models, econometric projections, or workload forecasting models.
  • Conducts research using innovative analytical approaches and applying techniques in a creative manner to solve very difficult problems, enhance performance, or increase efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Consults with supervisor, other research analysts, and subject-matter specialists to advise them on all aspects of problem-related studies and assignments. Such advice, both oral and written, includes the translation of broad and specific technical problems and considerations into language which allows for decisions and actions to be taken both timely and appropriately.
  • Performs special studies of Service operations to identify mathematical applications to improve and/or enhance existing programs. Responsibilities in conducting these studies include determining the types of data to be collected, formulating study methodologies, recommending improvements to existing programs, assisting functional activities in the implementation of headquarters and field operational segments, and analyzing data from a variety of sources.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National and provide proof of U.S. Citizenship. (Birth certificate showing birth in the U.S; Unexpired U.S. Passport; Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization; or Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen (Form FS-240))
  • Undergo a review of prior performance/conduct and an income tax verification. Refer to "Get Your Tax Record" at http://www.irs.gov/(https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript) to check the status of your account, balance owed, payment history, make a payment, or review answers to tax questions. If you are not in compliance, you will be determined unsuitable for employment with IRS.
  • Must successfully complete a background investigation, including a FBI criminal history record check (fingerprint check).
  • Complete a Declaration for Federal Employment to determine your suitability for Federal employment, at the time requested by the agency.
  • Go through a Personal Identity Verification (PIV) process that requires two forms of identification from the Form I-9. Federal law requires verification of the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires in the U.S. These documents must be unexpired original or certified copies.

Qualifications

Federal experience is not required. The experience may have been gained in the public sector, private sector or Volunteer Service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-timework is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week, on your resume.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To qualify for this position, you must meet the qualification requirements outlined below:
*PLEASE SEE THE "Additional Information" SECTION FOR GS-12 AND GS-13 SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS*

BASIC REQUIREMENTS (All Grades):
Degree: in operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.

Evaluation of Education: The primary requirement of operations research work is competence in the rigorous methods of scientific inquiry and analysis rather than in the subject matter of the problem. Therefore, applicants should have sufficient knowledge of applied mathematics to understand and use the fundamental concepts and techniques of operations research methods of analysis. In addition, some positions may require knowledge of a specific subject area.
Courses acceptable for qualifying for operations research positions may have been taken in departments other than Operations Research, e.g., Engineering (usually Industrial Engineering), Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Management Science. The following are illustrative of acceptable courses: optimization; mathematical modeling; queueing theory; engineering; physics (except descriptive or survey courses); econometrics; psychometrics; biometrics; experimental psychology; physical chemistry; industrial process analysis; managerial economics; computer science; measurement for management; mathematical models in social phenomena; and courses that involved application of operations research techniques and methodologies to problems of management, marketing, systems design, and other specialized fields; or other comparable quantitative analysis courses for which college-level mathematics or statistics is a prerequisite. Courses in theory of probability and statistics are highly desirable but are not specified as minimum educational requirements because to do so would possibly exclude some applicants who would otherwise be well qualified.

In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-07: To qualify for this position at this grade level, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level that required basic professional knowledge of mathematical methods and scientific principles to assist other analysts; Basic knowledge of multivariate techniques and mathematical, simulation economics, econometric and statistical operations research techniques to use in projects; Skills in researching and gathering pertinent data from a variety of sources, and using it to analyze routine projects; General knowledge of the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to assigned subject matter projects and of the meaning of the data secured from tax returns; Knowledge of user-oriented computer programming languages and statistical software packages.
OR
One year of graduate level education at an accredited college or university in operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, management science, economics, mathematical logic, science, engineering or related field.
OR
Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) may be met by having a Bachelor's degree, with one of the following: A GPA of 2.95 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all completed undergraduate courses or those completed in the last two years of study, or a GPA of 3.45 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all courses in the major field of study or those courses in the major completed in the last two years of study, or rank in the upper one third of the class in the college, university, or major subdivision, or membership in a national honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
OR
A combination of qualifying graduate education and experience equivalent to the amount required.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-09: At least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level that demonstrated knowledge of operations research. The assignments must have shown completion of the following, or the equivalent. Experience utilizing basic knowledge of mathematical methods and scientific principles to accomplish studies and utilize mathematical models. Conducting research and gathering pertinent data from a wide variety of sources. A masters or equivalent graduate degree in a field of study such as: operations research; or a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence as described in the basic requirements. OR Two (2) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a masters or equivalent graduate degree in a field of study such as: operations research; or a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence as described in the basic requirements.
OR
A combination of graduate education and experience as described above.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-11: At least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level that demonstrated accomplishment of mathematical reasoning/statistical project assignments that required a range of knowledge of operations research requirements and techniques. For example, assignments would show a good understanding of operations research processes, procedures, and rules. accomplishments normally involve the following, or the equivalent: Experience utilizing knowledge of mathematical methods and scientific principles in order to accomplish studies, develop a variety of mathematical models and provide management with solutions or recommendations. Experience utilizing basic knowledge of multivariate techniques and knowledge of pertinent mathematical, simulation, economics, econometric and statistical operations research techniques. Researching and gathering data from a wide variety of sources and use it to analyze technical projects and program areas.
OR
Three (3) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph. D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a field of study such as: operations research; or a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence as described in the basic requirements.
OR
A Ph. D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a field of study such as: operations research; or a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence as described in the basic requirements.
OR
A combination of graduate education and experience as described above.

*PLEASE SEE THE "Additional Information" SECTION FOR GS-12 AND GS-13 SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS*

For more information on qualifications please refer to OPM's Qualifications Standards.

Education

For positions with an education requirement, or if you are qualifying for this position by substituting education or training for experience, submit a copy of your transcripts or equivalent. An official transcript will be required if you are selected.

A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here for Foreign Education Credentialing instructions.

Additional information

  • Subject to a 1-year probationary period (unless already completed).
  • Have your salary sent to a financial institution of your choice by Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer.
  • If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so.
  • We may select from this announcement or any other source to fill one or more vacancies. Additional jobs may be filled.
  • The salary range indicated in this announcement reflects the minimum locality pay up to maximum locality pay for all duty locations listed. The range will be adjusted for selected duty location. General Schedule locality pay tables may be found under Salaries & Wages.
  • This is a non-bargaining unit position.
  • Tour of Duty: Monday-Friday, Day Shift
  • Alternative work schedule, staggered work hours or telework may be available.
  • Relocation expenses - No
  • Obtain and use a Government-issued charge card for business-related travel.
  • Telework Eligible Positions: Telework eligible positions do not guarantee telework. Employees must meet and sustain IRS telework eligibility requirements (e.g., reporting at least twice a pay period to your assigned Post of Duty (POD)) and supervisor's approval to participate in the IRS Telework Program. Employees must also be within a 200-mile radius of their official assigned post-of-duty (POD) while in a telework status. As a reminder - If you are selected for a position, you are responsible for reporting to your designated POD (location) on the negotiated start date or as directed by management.
The following is a continuation from the "Qualifications" section:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-12: In addition to meeting the basic requirements you must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level. Qualifying experience is experience that demonstrated accomplishment of operations research project assignments that required a wide range of knowledge of mathematical reasoning requirements and techniques pertinent to the position to be filled. This knowledge is generally demonstrated by assignments where the applicant analyzed a number of alternative approaches in the process of advising management concerning major aspects of mathematical methods and scientific principles utilized to accomplish complex studies to provide management with viable solutions or recommendations.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-13: In addition to meeting the basic requirements you must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12 level. Qualifying experience is experience that demonstrated accomplishment of operations research project assignments that required a wide range of knowledge of mathematical reasoning requirements and techniques pertinent to the position to be filled. This knowledge is generally demonstrated by assignments where the applicant analyzed a number of alternative approaches in the process of advising management concerning major aspects of complex mathematical methods and scientific principles utilized to accomplish complex studies to measure program effectiveness and efficiency and to identify probable causes of cost/workload variance.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application includes your resume, responses to the online questions, and required supporting documents. Please be sure that your resume includes detailed information to support your qualifications for this position; failure to provide sufficient evidence in your resume may result in a "not qualified" determination.

Rating: You will be assessed on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics):

  • Communication
  • Data Analysis
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Math Knowledge
  • Problem Solving


Category rating will be used to rank and select eligible candidates. If qualified, you will be assigned to one of two quality level categories, CAT A/B, CAT C depending on your responses to the online questions, regarding your experience, education, and training related to this position. Your rating may be lowered if your responses to the online questions are not supported by the education and/or experience described in your application.

Referral: If you are among the top qualified candidates, your application may be referred to a selecting official for consideration. Candidates, if required to participate in a selection interview (telephonic and/or in person at the discretion of the Selecting Official in accordance with hiring practices), will be interviewed in quality group order. We will not reimburse costs related to the interview such as travel to and from the interview site.

Veterans' preference is applied after applicants are assessed. Qualified preference eligibles who have a compensable service-connected disability of 10 percent or more (CPS, CP) are placed at the top of the highest category on the referral list (except for scientific or professional positions at the GS-9 level or higher). Remaining preference eligibles are placed above non-preference eligibles within their assigned category.

If you are a displaced or surplus Federal employee (eligible for the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP)/Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP), you must receive a rating of category "CAT C" to be rated as "well qualified" to receive special selection priority.

Internal Revenue Service

WHY IS THE IRS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK? As an IRS employee, you will feel proud knowing you helped make America stronger while working at one of the world's biggest financial institutions. You will be part of an organization that collects over $2 trillion in revenue and processes over 200 million tax returns annually. We are proud of how we apply the tax law with integrity and fairness to all. The IRS hires talented and dedicated individuals from many backgrounds, including accounting, business, finance, law enforcement and information technology. You will be challenged & supported on a daily basis. Whether you are just starting out or looking for a new opportunity, consider an IRS career.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has a distinguished history dating back to the founding of our nation. As the steward of U.S. economic and financial systems, Treasury is a major and influential leader in today's global economy. We have over 100,000 employees across the country and around the world. Come Join the Department of the Treasury and Invest in Tomorrow.

Agency contact information

IRS Philadelphia External
Email
Hco.phl.ext@irs.gov
Address
Research, Applied Analytics and Statistics Data Exploration and Testing
1111 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20224
US

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