Ascension LLC is seeking a highly experienced Business Data Analyst IV (QA / Independent Validation Role) to serve as an independent reviewer of cost estimation models, assumptions, methodologies, and outputs supporting a federal cost estimation engagement.

This role is critical to ensuring credibility, defensibility, and audit-readiness of cost estimates developed for mission-critical federal programs. The ideal candidate is a senior-level cost analyst or estimator who brings deep expertise in independent cost estimate (ICE) validation, QA/QC frameworks, and federal cost estimating best practices (e.g., GAO Cost Estimating Guide, DoD methodologies).

This position is designed for professionals who excel at:

• Challenging assumptions constructively
• Identifying gaps, risks, and inconsistencies
• Ensuring methodological rigor and traceability
• Providing objective, unbiased validation

This role directly supports the Government’s need for transparent, defensible, and decision-ready cost estimates.

Position Summary

The Business Data Analyst IV (QA Role) functions as an Independent Validation Analyst, responsible for conducting structured quality assurance reviews at key milestones of the cost estimation lifecycle.

The candidate will:

• Perform independent validation of cost models (including SEER-based estimates)
• Assess assumptions, data sources, estimating methodologies, and outputs
• Validate alignment with federal standards and best practices
• Provide formal QA findings, risk assessments, and recommendations

The ideal candidate is:

• Detail-oriented and analytical with strong professional skepticism
• Self-directed and comfortable working in a non-linear, checkpoint-driven engagement
• Skilled at identifying issues before they become risks
• Effective in communicating complex findings to both technical and executive audiences

This role is not full-time execution, but rather targeted, high-impact QA intervention at critical stages of the project.

Day-to-Day / Periodic Activities

• Conduct independent reviews of cost estimates, models, and supporting documentation
• Validate assumptions, cost drivers, inputs, and data sources for accuracy and completeness
• Assess adherence to GAO Cost Estimating Guide and industry best practices
• Perform methodology validation, including parametric, analogy-based, and bottom-up estimates
• Review SEER models for input integrity, calibration, and output reasonableness
• Identify risks, gaps, inconsistencies, and unsupported assumptions
• Develop QA review reports, findings, and corrective action recommendations
• Participate in midpoint and final validation checkpoints
• Provide briefings to project leadership and stakeholders on QA findings
• Ensure traceability between assumptions, calculations, and outputs
• Validate documentation completeness for audit and review readiness