Defense Acquisition Cost Estimator

Applied Research Solutions is seeking a Cost Estimator to support critical Department of Defense acquisition programs. This role will develop, analyze, and evaluate cost estimates to support program planning, budgeting, and acquisition decisions. The ideal candidate will have experience with DoD acquisition and cost estimating processes, strong analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations for program leadership.

Why Work with us?

Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers. 

Responsibilities Include:

• Use of routine cost estimating methods such as analogy, engineering or scientific methodology, and extrapolation.
• Use of cost estimating outputs to assess the impact various factors have on the costs to design, research, develop, produce, field, operate, maintain, and dispose of a particular weapon system.
• Most appropriate phase of the budgetary cycle (planning, programming, justification, execution, etc.) for initiating new programs.
• Analyze all elements affecting costs for a project of limited scope.
• Analyze Contractor financial data using EVM measures of merit to determine program viability with respect to cost, schedule, and performance.
• Use of the Automated Cost Estimating Integrated Tool (ACEIT) Suite to perform all program office estimates and analyses is mandatory use for working in the NC3 Directorate for all cost analysis positions.
• Analytical processes, such as setting up the problem, conducting background research, collecting, and reducing data, displaying data for analysis, formulating mathematical expressions, and drawing conclusions.
• Compliance with all cost estimating guidance including the appropriate DoD, Air Force, AFMC, AFNWC, or lower-level policy, publications, supplements, manuals, etc., as well as applicable documents and regulations, systems, processes, and guides, as required.
• Will perform other duties as assigned.  

Qualifications:

• Must be a US citizen
• Clearance: Current Active Top-Secret Clearance 
• Education: BA/BS degree 
• Years of Experience:  3+ years of Cost Estimating experience working within a DoD setting

Technical Skills

• Familiarization with Air Force Cost Estimating practices & techniques 
• Strong Finance background 
• Analytical mindset

The expected annual salary range: $140k-$150k. Salary is dependent upon the role and associated responsibilities, candidate's experience, and qualifications to include education/training, and key skills.

All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.