Deterrence Policy Analyst

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, producing Results that Matter. The Sea, Land, Air Analysis Group’s mission is to deliver objective analyses, plans, and strategies to US Navy, US Marine Corps, USAF, other DoD, and Australian Defence Force clients to support technology development, acquisition, delivery, and sustainment decisions. The group provides thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development and Cost Estimating, with additional capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.

About the role

SPA has a need for a senior Deterrence Policy Analyst to lead analysis and integration of national deterrence guidance into Air Force policy and planning. This role helps AF/A10 shape and interpret strategic documents and reviews for the Air Force deterrence mission.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze national-level documents such as the NSS, NDS, NPR, Missile Defense Review, and related guidance, identifying implications for Air Force deterrence policy and force development.
• Develop options papers, decision memos, and briefs that support AF/A10’s positions in major strategic reviews and planning activities.
• Articulate Air Force equities in joint and interagency strategic planning, aligning nuclear, CWMD, and broader deterrence contributions.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure AF/A10 positions are coherent, timely, and fully staffed.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in international relations, strategic studies, security studies, or a related discipline; master’s degree preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in strategic policy analysis, deterrence planning, or closely related work in a headquarters, joint, or interagency environment.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and synthesize complex strategic guidance into clear recommendations for senior leaders.
• Active TS/SCI clearance and the ability to maintain it throughout employment.

Desired Qualifications

• Direct experience supporting one or more strategic reviews (e.g., NPR, NDS development, JSCP, major PBRs).
• Familiarity with nuclear posture, NC3, CWMD, and conventional-nuclear integration issues and how they fit into broader deterrence strategy.

Pay

Salary range: USD $130,000.00/Yr. - USD $180,000.00/Yr.

Benefits

SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including:

• Health insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Health savings accounts
• Retirement savings plans
• Life and disability insurance programs
• Paid and unpaid time away from work

The specific programs and options available may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location and date of hire.