Observer Reporter

Observer Reporter

BLUF

Tactical Analyst I provides foundational operational or technical support to experimentation, analysis, and event execution across defense programs. This entry-level role builds core competencies in data collection, equipment support, and tactical insight delivery.

Company Overview

Covan Group is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) based in the National Capital Region. Our team consists of high-performing, experienced, and adaptive veterans and civilians who bring a multi-tiered perspective and deep expertise to our clients. Covan Group combines military and civilian experience across key areas, including MAGTF Planning, MEU and Special Operations, Military Instruction, Fires, Networking, Data Analytics, and Multimedia Production. Our capabilities are rooted in experience at all levels, from squad leaders to division leaders. With a strong foundation of recently separated service members—many still serving in the reserve component—Covan Group provides clients with firsthand military insight into research, development, and operational innovation.

Key Outcomes (First 90–180 Days)

• Learns and understands assigned collection questions, observation criteria, scorecards, reporting standards, and evidence requirements.
• Develops proficiency with approved observation methods and tools while maintaining complete, accurate, and traceable records.
• Demonstrates disciplined distinction between observed facts, participant statements, inference, and unresolved questions.
• Provides timely, reliable observations and debrief inputs while identifying collection gaps, access issues, and safety concerns.

Core Responsibilities

Operational SME Track

• Conduct logistics coordination, equipment setup, and field observations.
• Capture operator-level insights from test events and technology evaluations.
• Support structured assessments, data gathering, and after-action documentation.

Project Responsibilities

The Observer Reporter records structured observations and supporting evidence during experiments and operational events as part of the Data Collection team, supporting assigned teams as required and producing accurate, timely, and traceable records for analysis and after-action reporting.

• Review assigned collection questions, observation criteria, scorecards, and reporting instructions.
• Attend observer preparation, event briefs, rehearsals, and task-level training.
• Observe assigned activities from approved positions using established collection methods.
• Record time, location, conditions, actions, and outcomes in approved forms.
• Distinguish observed facts from participant statements, inference, and unanswered questions.
• Capture authorized supporting evidence and preserve required identifiers and metadata.
• Check records for completeness, clarity, consistency, and legibility before submission.
• Report collection gaps, access issues, and safety concerns through designated channels.
• Submit observations, participate in debriefs, and clarify records for analysts.
• Maintain accountability for assigned equipment and protect collected information.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• Military experience at the NCO level (E5-E7), OR equivalent foundational operational or field-support experience in a federal or state organization.
• Foundational operational or technical experience consistent with Tactical Analyst I, including accurate observation, writing, and recordkeeping.
• Ability to follow collection instructions, distinguish facts from inference, and work reliably in field settings.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and reliability while working under supervision and established collection, safety, and reporting procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior Marine Corps experience (E5-E7) or comparable.
• Experience with experimentation, testing, or operational evaluation.
• Experience with scorecards, structured debriefs, sensors, or data-entry tools.

Specialized Tools / Systems / Capabilities

• Approved observation forms and scorecards; tablets or laptops; time references; authorized radios and evidence-capture devices; assigned reporting and data-entry systems.

Clearance Requirements

• Secret eligibility required; Secret preferred. Higher access only as required by the assigned contract or program.
• Must comply with all applicable security procedures and reporting requirements.

Work Environment & Travel

• Remote-first role with approximately 50–80% annual travel to customer, laboratory, and event locations.
• Central Data Collection pool assigned to teams as needed. Event execution may require extended days, shifts, early mornings, evenings, weekends, and schedule changes.
• Travel governed by Covan Group's Travel Policy.

Compensation

2026 Pay Band: $66,500 – $98,000

EEOC & Accommodation Statement

Covan Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.