PM and Technical Advisor

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 Management & Technical Advisor.

Responsibilities:

Seeking a well-rounded, mid-level Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) to provide comprehensive program execution, technical advisory, and project coordination support for high-priority research and development (R&D) initiatives. The selected advisor will support the Program Manager in tracking complex project milestones, integrating schedules, and coordinating execution activities across a portfolio of highly sensitive, classified projects. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience supporting rapid prototyping or advanced capabilities in DoD program offices, including a background in test execution and range operations. This role requires an individual who thrives in classified environments, with desired experience navigating Special Access Programs (SAPs) and collaborating across joint DoD and Intelligence Community (IC) landscapes. While the position involves supporting basic financial tracking and alignment with established funding structures, the primary focus is on robust, end-to-end program delivery, multi-stakeholder coordination, and translating complex programmatic data into actionable insights for senior leadership.

• Project Execution & Portfolio Support
  • Provide project coordination, milestone tracking, and program execution support across a portfolio of R&D projects.
  • Coordinate technical project schedules and deliverables to align with established program timelines and financial planning.
  • Maintain comprehensive program execution trackers, action item lists, and schedule integrations.
  • Facilitate coordination and communication among technical teams, contracting offices, program stakeholders, performers, and external partners.
• Financial Tracking & PPBE Administration
  • Monitor project financial performance, tracking obligations, expenditures, and burn rates against program baselines.
  • Support Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) processes, including preparing spend plans, budget builds, and funds phasing.
  • Assist in monitoring funds execution to ensure compliance with relevant DoD appropriations (RDT&E, Procurement, O&M) and guidelines.
  • Identify, monitor, and report project schedule and financial risks that may impact successful program delivery.
• Project Coordination, Analysis & Reporting
  • Coordinate with program teams, contracting, and financial stakeholders on funding and program actions.
  • Track alignment between program execution and available resources and prepare recurring financial and execution status updates.
  • Draft highly professional executive briefings, background papers, status reports, and technical decision-support materials for senior leadership.
  • Support program reviews, milestones, and key leadership engagements with reliable, data-driven insights.

Required Qualifications:

• Active TS/SCI security clearance
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or a related technical field
• 3-5 years of experience supporting DoD project management, portfolio execution, or project tracking
• Foundational familiarity with the DoD PPBE process, financial execution tracking, and DoD appropriations structures (RDT&E, O&M, etc.)
• Familiarity with PPBE process and DoW appropriations (RDT&E, O&M, Procurement, etc.)
• Strong analytical, organizational, and professional communication skills, including executive briefing development
• Able to support occasional travel, up to 10%

• Able to work full-time in a Chantilly VA office within SCIF/SAPF spaces

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience working with Special Access Programs (SAPs) or within highly classified, multi-compartment environments
• Experience working with the Intelligence Community (IC) or in joint DoD-IC environments
• Experience supporting test execution, range operations, field trials, or operational demonstrations for rapid prototyping and R&D initiatives
• Prior experience supporting DoD R&D, rapid prototyping, or advanced capabilities offices
• DAWIA/Back-to-Basics certification in Program Management or Business/Financial Management