Acquisition Lifecycle Cost Analyst
Guidehouse · US - VA, Arlington ·
- Company size
- 1000+
- Salary
- USD 98,000 – 163,000 / year
Builds and maintains lifecycle cost models for government programs, analyzing acquisition through disposal phases using regulatory frameworks and Monte Carlo simulations.
Job Family:
Management Consulting
Travel Required:
Clearance Required:
What You Will Do:
We are looking for a lifecycle cost estimator with experience in developing, analyzing, and maintaining life-cycle cost models to support program planning, budgeting, and decision-making. This role focuses on applying cost estimating methodologies across the full system lifecycle—from concept development through operations and sustainment. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, attention to detail, self-motivation, and the ability to translate complex cost data into actionable insights for stakeholders.
Responsibilities:
Develop and maintain Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCEs) in accordance with regulatory guidance (e.g., OMB, GAO, DoD, DHS)
Build cost models that capture acquisition, operations, maintenance, and disposal phases of programs or systems
Conduct cost analyses including parametric, analogy-based, engineering build-up, and extrapolation techniques
Perform cost risk and uncertainty analyses using tools such as Monte Carlo simulations
Analyze historical cost data and normalize datasets for use in estimating models
Collaborate with program managers, engineers, and financial analysts to gather inputs and validate assumptions
Support budget formulation, justification, and execution activities with detailed cost estimates
Prepare cost documentation, including Basis of Estimate (BOE), assumptions, methodologies, and supporting analysis
Develop and present cost briefings to stakeholders, leadership, and review boards
Evaluate program alternatives and conduct trade-off analyses to support cost-effective decision-making
Participate in independent cost estimates (ICEs), cost reviews, and audit support activities
Contribute to the development of cost estimating standards, processes, and best practices
Provide ongoing updates to estimates as program requirements evolve
What You Will Need:
An ACTIVE and MAINTAINED CBP PUBLIC TRUST
Bachelor's degree
THREE (3) or more years' of experience in cost estimation and/or analysis; including Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCE)
What Would Be Nice To Have:
Experience supporting acquisition programs across multiple lifecycle phases
Experience working in Agile or Hybrid-Agile environments
Experience working with structured cost estimating methodologies and frameworks
Experience supporting government programs with defined cost reporting requirements
Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Ability to communicate complex cost drivers and assumptions to non-technical stakeholders
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Basic Life & Supplemental Life
Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Student Loan PayDown
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
Skills Development & Certifications
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
Mobility Stipend
About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer–Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at [email protected]. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or [email protected]. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse’s Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact [email protected]. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant’s dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.