Filling a Cost Analyst Position with the Navy
The Client
Our client, an organization in Washington, DC, prominently working with the Navy had to fill a priority Mid-level Cost Analyst position quickly. For this position, the client needed candidates with expertise in cost estimation within the Navy, preferably experienced in utilizing tools such as Navy ERP. This position also required the candidate to be certified as Certified Cost EStimator Analyst(CCEA) or Professional Cost Estimator Analyst(PCEA). One of the reasons for filling this position ASAP was to eliminate the competition other vendors professed.
The Challenges/Opportunities
Salary: A limited budget made it more complex to attract top talent within two weeks given the expertise required for the position.
Certifications: Certified Cost Estimator Analyst(CCEA)/Professional Cost Estimator Analyst(PCEA) from the International Cost Estimating & Analysis Association(ICEAA). Candidates obtain these certifications after years of experience and we had to find a candidate for the position with only a few years of experience and a lesser salary. The total number of candidates in the US who hold these certifications is around 750.
Niche Skill Set: Finding a certified cost analyst with Navy ERP experience was challenging due to the specialized nature of this system and the limited pool of candidates meeting both criteria.
Clearance: An active Secret clearance was also required for this position. Most of the applicants we met had clearances classified as Top Secret during the screening process, but our client could only hold and manage those with a Secret clearance. This mismatch made the recruitment procedure even more challenging because we had to locate talented applicants who precisely matched the clearance requirements.
Remote work: Most of the candidates working in such positions were looking for remote opportunities. This preference for remote work limited the pool of candidates, and they were not willing to go onsite at Washington, DC.
The iQuasar Solution
- Tailored Talent Acquisition Strategy: We built a targeted recruitment strategy to identify applicants with experience in cost estimating, Navy ERP, and CCEA or PCEA certification. We used industry networks, specialist job portals, and direct outreach regarding the client’s budgetary restrictions and requirements for a SECRET clearance. This tactic ensured that the on-site position was filled promptly and effectively in Washington, DC.
- Quality-Focus: Our team focused on maintaining high standards throughout the recruitment process. This included a rigorous screening of candidates to ensure they met the necessary qualifications and were a good cultural fit for the organization. To guarantee the greatest levels of qualification and dependability, we were committed to conducting comprehensive examinations, which included asking individuals for the Right to Represent (RTR) agreement.
- Utilization of Diverse Portals: We leveraged various recruitment portals and platforms to broaden our search and reach potential candidates who might not be actively seeking new opportunities but had the desired skill set and certifications.
- Creative Outreach Methods: Using innovative outreach techniques and proven tactics, we recruited a great candidate for the Cost Analyst post. Our creative approaches—such as targeted marketing and distinctive interaction tactics—were essential in attracting competent applicants and ensuring a wide and superior pool of submissions. We made our interaction with the candidates more individualized through emails, SMS, and phone calls. As a result, we established rapport and trust with possible prospects.
- Efficient Communication Networks: Maintaining clear and efficient communication channels was crucial. This ensured that all stakeholders, including the Client and potential candidates, were informed throughout the recruitment process, facilitating timely and effective decision-making.
How Our Solution Created Value for the Client
iQuasar’s strategic and focused strategy quickly filled the Client’s essential Mid-level Cost Analyst position, keeping project dates on track. Using specialized portals and innovative outreach strategies, we could draw in top talent while staying under budget, obtaining applicants certified in PCEA or CCEA and fluent in Navy ERP. Our comprehensive screening guaranteed that the Secret clearance criterion was met, precisely keeping with the Client’s regulatory standards and operational security requirements.
Upon receiving the job description, we promptly submitted a qualified candidate within 2 days. After thorough interviews, the candidate demonstrated exceptional suitability for the role and was successfully hired within 12 days. This efficient and effective process underscores our commitment to timely and high-quality recruitment services.