Job Description

Research Analyst (North America)

Ashburn, Virginia, United States

Position type: Full-Time

Department: Project Research Division

Reports to: Deputy Director, PRD

Date posted: March 18, 2026

Closing date: Open until filled

INTRODUCTION

Are you passionate about applying an interest in the energy and renewables area to the real-world where you can see the benefit? Are you interested in learning about what makes capital projects really tick? Do you love making connections and solving puzzles or problems? Are you detailed and focused, but you have broad interests and ideas? Do you enjoy analytical research work and are also comfortable in a client-facing role?

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Research Analyst focuses on developing analytical products (e.g., machine learning models) that support our benchmarking business and targeted research to help clients across sectors (oil and gas, energy, minerals, infrastructure, chemicals, pharmaceutical, and consumer products). They are also tasked with supporting the creation of new products (e.g., applications) that drive the company forward and help our clients navigate a changing world. Independent Project Analysis, Inc. (IPA) is a company that values innovation, and our Research Analysts have a lead role this innovation effort.

IPA seeks candidates for the Research Analyst position with strong analytical skills and intellectual curiosity who are looking to contribute as a thought leader. The candidate’s interest in studying project practices that affect project outcomes is critical as is an ability to connect real life with the data and knowing when to ask more questions.

DAY IN THE LIFE

The general responsibilities of the Research Analyst role include:

• Working on studies related to Industry focusing on cost and schedule effectiveness
• Collaborating with cross-functional groups within IPA and working directly with clients to address their questions and needs
• Analyzing data, conducting research, and developing new products
• Interfacing with clients
• Developing reports and presentations with insight and a customer focus
• Delivering verbal (including virtual delivery) feedback and presentations
• Working directly with capital project teams to improve business competitiveness

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Research Analysts must have:

• General process knowledge and the ability to identify key process equipment types
• Ability to identify key characteristics of process components that might affect cost
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Interpersonal skills needed to develop and maintain relationships at senior levels with client companies
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning new concepts and applying them quickly
• Solid analytical skills
• Proven ability to turn an abstract concept or idea into something actionable
• A track record of finding creative solutions to complex problems
• Flexibility in thought and/or approach (as opposed to a rigid perspective)
• An ability to work well in teams but also be capable of managing multiple projects independently
• Demonstrated experience reading process diagrams preferred

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• A degree in STEM, engineering, or related field is required; Master’s degree is preferred
• Experience in petroleum, civil, chemical, mechanical, industrial, and/or industrial electrical engineering is preferred
• Experience with coding

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position will involve approximately 10 to 15 percent travel.

WHY IPA?

For over 35 years, IPA has delivered groundbreaking research and quantitative risk analyses to enhance the value generated by our clients’ capital project systems and meet their obligations for sustainable and safe performance. IPA guides capital-intensive organizations to establish the right combination of people, work process, and governance to maximize performance across several measures: cost, schedule, safety, operability performance, and carbon reduction. We have a dataset of over 22,000 capital projects as the basis of our work. Our clients are leading companies in the energy, minerals, infrastructure, chemicals, pharmaceutical, and consumer products sectors. IPA is committed to social and ethical responsibility, and all global offices initiate or participate in local charity initiatives to support those in need. We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, stable employment, and a long-term career path for professional growth and development.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants should complete the form at and include a cover letter, resume, and salary requirement. IPA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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