Strategist- VEO & Counterterrorism Functional SME

Pay Rate:

The annual base salary range for this position $96,600-$131,000. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. At Sawdey Solution Services, we recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. We will consider several factors when extending an offer to an applicant. These factors include (but are not limited to) the position, associated responsibilities, work experience, education, related training, and related skills.

Position Location: Arlington, VA

Telework/Work-from-Home Authorized:

When Authorized/Hybrid No

About the Role: The Strategist - Violent Extremist Organization (VEO) and Counterterrorism Functional SME will support National Security Strategy development and execution across Combatant Commands, the Military Services, Allied and Coalition partners, and the interagency community. This role involves providing fact-finding, analysis, and expert recommendations on counterterrorism and VEO challenges. The Strategist will advise DoD and USAF leadership on strategic insights and operational analysis to enhance air power capabilities in alignment with national security objectives and Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards. This position requires a deep understanding of U.S. Air Force air power projection and application to inform strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will bring comprehensive knowledge of U.S. Air Force operations and demonstrated experience in national security planning, strategy development, and counterterrorism efforts.

Additional Responsibilities Include, but are not Limited To:

• Develop, coordinate, and advise on the implementation of policies to provide air and cyberspace power expertise supporting the CSAF, AF/A3, and Numbered Air Force Air Component Commanders and Staffs, focused on the near-term time horizon (0-24 months) and current operational challenges.
• Develop strategies and operational concepts with particular attention to air and cyber power, the use of war gaming techniques to effect transformation of the Air Force, and the design, development, and execution of strategic and operational war games, related seminars, and workshops.
• Advise the Joint Staff (JS) and Combatant Commander (CCDR) staffs during operational planning and analysis to provide optimal recommendations for the employment of Air Force capabilities against operational challenges associated with VEOs and terrorism.
• Recommend the actions necessary to support a variety of major missions and operational plans associated with VEOs and counterterrorism.
• Provide SME level support on the establishment, revisions, and reviews of operational plans, policies, procedures, mission objectives, and organizational design for the staff, eliminating problems or barriers to mission accomplishment with respect to countering VEOs and terrorism.
• Support customer interactions with senior management at the Colonel, GO, and SES level as they participate in a variety of organizations and groups within and outside the U.S. Air Force to include OSD, JCS, CCMDs, MAJCOMs, NAFs and inter-agencies.
• Address programming, planning, budgeting, policy, and warfighting operational implications, based on Air Staff and Joint administrative and operations instructions/procedures knowledge.
• Assess and articulate USAF air power projection strategies, including force structure, deployment, and operational capabilities, to support DoD mission requirements.
• Lead and participate in Operational Planning Teams (OPTs) as the air power strategist and expert, representing the Air Force in joint planning efforts.
• Deliver high-level briefings and reports to senior USAF and DoD leaders, translating complex air power concepts into clear, actionable insights for General Officers and SES stakeholders.
• Collaborate with USAF and joint DoD teams to integrate air power strategies into operational plans that align with theater-specific objectives and national defense priorities.
• Evaluate and recommend advanced technologies, such as AI, fifth-generation fighters, and space-based assets, to maintain USAF dominance in air power projection.
• Ensure program activities comply with CMMC standards, securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and supporting DoD cybersecurity protocols.
• Act as a liaison between the Contractor, USAF leadership, and DoD entities, fostering collaboration and ensuring air power strategies align with joint force requirements.
• Analyze global air power trends and adversary capabilities to inform USAF strategies and provide insights into countering peer and near-peer competitors.
• Mentor junior staff and contractors on air power concepts to build team knowledge and support mission success.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.

Experience Requirements:

• Ten (10) years combined federal (DoD or DoS) experience with five (5) years total experience at MAJCOM, HAF or JS/CCMD J2/3/5/8.
• Shall possess multiple in-country experience working Violent Extremist Organization (VEO) or counterterrorism Pol-Mil issues with allies or partner nations in one or more of the following fields: Security Cooperation, Defense Policy, Alliance Management, Ministry of Defense/Joint Staff Liaison, Force Development, or Burden Sharing.
• Experience preparing U.S. Flag and General Officers for Congressional testimony on combating or countering Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs) and/or terrorism.
• Expertise in developing, analyzing, or implementing air power strategies, including operational planning, joint exercises, or campaign design.
• Experience supporting senior USAF or DoD leadership with air power-focused briefings or policy development, ideally in a Pentagon environment

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree(s) from an accredited university or equivalent service academy is required.
  
  
  
  • Education shall have an emphasis in studies, courses, or training with understanding and/or combating VEOs or terrorism.
  • Major in areas such as regional studies, history, international affairs/relations, or national security/policy desired.
  • Master's degree or Doctorate desired.
  
  
  
  
• Master's degree (MA) or Doctorate (PhD) is desired.

Certificate, License, and Registration Requirements:

• Shall have attendance and/or course completion certification and/or work experience in VEO or counterterrorism Security Studies.

Other Required Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of Air Staff and Joint administrative and operations instructions/procedures and be able to address programming, planning, budgeting, policy, and warfighting operational implications.
• Expert knowledge of USAF air power capabilities, including platforms (e.g., F-35, B-21), doctrine, and multi-domain operations.
• Exceptional communication skills, with experience crafting strategic briefings, white papers, or policy documents for senior leadership.
• Proficiency in analytical tools (e.g., modeling software, GIS, DoD planning systems) and program management platforms (e.g., MS Project, SharePoint).
• Knowledge of CMMC and DoD cybersecurity requirements.
• Ability to synthesize complex technical and strategic data into actionable recommendations under tight deadlines
• Must be able to effectively communicate with customer and fulfill all duties and responsibilities as listed in the contract.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office suite including, but not limited to: Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.

Security Clearance Requirements:

Top Secret/SCI Clearance

US Citizenship Requirements:

This position supports a U.S. Government Contract whose terms require Sawdey Solution Services to staff it only with U.S. Citizens.

• Mission-Critical Work: We play a vital role in ensuring the security of our nation's digital infrastructure.
• Professional Growth: Embrace the opportunity to take on diverse and dynamic roles that challenge and inspire you.
• Collaborative Culture: You are joining a unified team where your unique contributions are valued and celebrated.

• Hardworking Individuals: If you're someone who takes initiative, loves a challenge, and is committed to excellence, you'll feel right at home here.
• Talented Professionals: Whether you're an expert in your field or a rising star, we recognize your potential and support your effort toward success.
• Diverse Perspectives: Our strength lies in our diversity. We believe that a diverse team fosters creativity, innovation, and achievement.

This position is currently accepting applications.