Overview
Budget Analysts at all levels support the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) within Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (OUSD) for Research and Engineering (R&E), contributing to the planning, programming, budgeting, and execution (PPBE) of resources that enable DoD-wide adoption of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence. Personnel operate across the budget lifecycle supporting formulation, execution, and financial analysis while interfacing with program, acquisition, and mission stakeholders. Contributions directly enable resource alignment to strategic priorities and decision advantage across the Department of Defense.
Responsibilities
Budget Formulation & Planning
Support development and integration of budget exhibits and justification materials (e.g., R-Docs, P-Docs) in alignment with OSD guidance
Assist in requirements validation, cost analysis, and development/review of Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs)
Maintain traceability between requirements, funding lines, and program objectives across the FYDP
Contribute to Program Objective Memorandum (POM) and budget build activities
Budget Execution & Financial Operations
Develop and process funding packages in accordance with appropriations law and DoD financial policy
Execute commitments and obligations within enterprise systems, including Defense Agencies Initiative
Track execution status (commitments, obligations, expenditures) and ensure alignment with obligation plans
Coordinate with mission partners to resolve execution delays and ensure timely obligation of funds
Monitor Unliquidated Obligations (ULOs) and perform research, validation, and corrective actions
Analysis & Decision Support
Provide data-driven analysis on budget execution, burn rates, and funding gaps across appropriations and programs
Develop briefings and responses for leadership using financial and programmatic data
Support scenario analysis, reprogramming actions, and funding realignments
Ensure data integrity across systems and reporting platforms, including Advana
Integration & Governance
Participate in directorate, program, and acquisition forums to ensure financial synchronization
Support audit readiness and contribute to the development of auditable financial statements
Maintain accurate records of financial transactions, program changes, and funding adjustments across execution and out-years
Collaborate with acquisition and program management teams to align resources with program baselines and milestones
Skills Required
Experience supporting DoD or Federal budget processes; OSD-level or headquarters experience preferred
Working knowledge of PPBE processes, appropriations law, and DoD financial management practices
Experience with enterprise financial and data systems, including Defense Agencies Initiative (DAI) and War Data Platform (WDP), previously known as Advana.
Strong analytical capability with proficiency in financial data interpretation and reconciliation
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; working knowledge of Word and PowerPoint for executive-level deliverables
Ability to operate independently, prioritize competing requirements, and escalate issues appropriately
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience supporting senior leadership engagements
Education
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences.