Project Technical & Acquisition Systems Engineer

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.

The Strategic Technology Analysis Group, part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, offers sophisticated capabilities (people, process & tools) to resolve unique problems in space, cyber, and special operations in support to military services, Secretary of Defense offices (OSD) and theater warfighters. Our portfolio includes the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration (SAF/SQ), Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC), Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), National Space Defense Center (NSDC), Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO), US Space Command (USSPACECOM) and US Space Force (USSF). Come be a part of a high-speed low-drag organization providing unique and tailored solutions for our National Defense!

SPA has an immediate need for a Project Technical & Acquisition Systems Engineer.

Seeking a highly motivated candidate to support a technical defense program with technical, programmatic, and staff experience; operational experience desired. The ideal candidate will support prototype development, maturation, and fielding; experience and expertise across capability development lifecycle required. This position requires technical education, training, and/or expertise in the areas of networking and data protocols, secure system design, interoperability, encryption standards and technologies, and/or understanding of associated field applications (such as reliability, survivability, and resiliency of military communications for various concepts of operations at tactical and operational echelons).

Program Management Support Duties:

Assist government Program Managers (PMs) in development and execution across the program lifecycle (i.e. from concept development to service transition).

• Support development and execution of acquisition strategies.
• Develop and maintain program schedules, milestone trackers, and risk management frameworks.
• Coordinate and facilitate performer program reviews, technical exchange meetings, and stakeholder working groups.
• Prepare/create materials in support of internal program reviews, concept development decision processes, etc.
• Prepare/create technical and executive briefings for varied audiences (internal and external).

Ensure program security and protection measures are defined, implemented, and adhered to in coordination with Program Security Representative(s).

• Provide critical program information (CPI) and inputs for program security classification guides (SCGs).
• Ensure security guidance is propagated to and followed by program performers and stakeholders throughout program lifecycle.

Financial and Contract Management

• Budget forecasting and allocation to performers.
• Prepare funding requests and associated documents.
• Track obligations and expenditures to ensure compliance with financial metrics.
• Prepare and review program documentation, such as Statements of Work (SOW), program work statements, and technical requirements documents.
• Track program budget execution, monitor performer spending, and analyze to inform program plan and identify programmatic and technical impacts.

Performer oversight and management

• Facilitate clear and consistent communication to ensure performer efforts are aligned with government requirements and program milestones.
• Advise and assist performers with program management, planning, schedule.
• Manage weekly battle rhythm of TEMs, update calls, etc.
• Plan and manage program reviews.
• Review all performer deliverables and provide feedback.

Test and event planning, oversight and management

• Interface with Government POCs for test events and exercises.
• Provide inputs and review test documentation (test plans, test cards, checklists, AARs, etc.).
• Lead planning efforts in preparation for test events and exercises.
• Plan for and manage security requirements for events (data handling, IATT, physical security).
• Provide execution oversight during test events.

Technical & Integration Support Duties:

• Provide technical review, analysis, and clarification on specific areas of expertise.
• Provide general systems engineering oversight and recommendations.
• Provide technical expertise and assessment of performer prototype development to inform government decisions.
• Support definition and management of system integration requirements, configuration management, interface control documents (ICDs), and API specifications.
• Support the government team in designing and executing technology demonstrations, pilot programs, and operationally relevant test and evaluation activities.

Required Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI security clearance at time of application
• MA/MS degree in a relevant field
• 10+ years of training and/or expertise in the areas of networking and data protocols, secure system design, interoperability, encryption standards and technologies, and/or understanding of associated field applications (such as reliability, survivability, and resiliency of military communications for various concepts of operations at tactical and operational echelons)
• Proficient in MS PowerPoint, Project, Excel and Word
• Excellent communication skills, ability to work with and lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced dynamic environment
• Expertise as a senior level program analyst capable of working independently and quickly synthesizing technical and program management information into concise, actionable, and compelling briefings and documentation
• Some travel expected, up to 10% to 20%
• Able to work full time in a Chantilly VA office within SCIF/SAPF spaces

Desired Qualifications

• Operational experience in the areas of signals intelligence, electromagnetic spectrum operations, or similar battlefield/tactical missions
• Proficient in program management (PMP Cert and/or DAWIA PM Level II) with ability to plan, develop, and refine scope of work, work breakdown structures, and cost estimates highly desired)