Research Analyst (North America)

Research Analyst (North America)Ashburn, Virginia, United StatesPosition type: Full-TimeDepartment: Project Research DivisionReports to: Deputy Director, PRDDate posted: March 18, 2026Closing date: Open until filledINTRODUCTIONAre 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 ROLEThe 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 LIFEThe general responsibilities of the Research Analyst role include:Working on studies related to Industry focusing on cost and schedule effectivenessCollaborating with cross-functional groups within IPA and working directly with clients to address their questions and needsAnalyzing data, conducting research, and developing new productsInterfacing with clientsDeveloping reports and presentations with insight and a customer focusDelivering verbal (including virtual delivery) feedback and presentationsWorking directly with capital project teams to improve business competitivenessPOSITION QUALIFICATIONSResearch Analysts must have:General process knowledge and the ability to identify key process equipment typesAbility to identify key characteristics of process components that might affect costExcellent written and oral communication skillsInterpersonal skills needed to develop and maintain relationships at senior levels with client companiesDemonstrated aptitude for learning new concepts and applying them quicklySolid analytical skillsProven ability to turn an abstract concept or idea into something actionableA track record of finding creative solutions to complex problemsFlexibility 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 independentlyDemonstrated experience reading process diagrams preferredEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEA degree in STEM, engineering, or related field is required; Master’s degree is preferredExperience in petroleum, civil, chemical, mechanical, industrial, and/or industrial electrical engineering is preferredExperience with codingTRAVEL REQUIREMENTSThis 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 APPLYApplicants should complete the form at https://www.ipaglobal.com/careers/research-analyst-north-america-3/ and include a cover letter, resume, and salary requirement. IPA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.