Systems Engineer

About the Company

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, both in the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative, producing results that matter. SPA provides critical decision support to enable a strategy of technological superiority and the delivery of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost-effectively.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts evaluates military problems, identifies driving factors, devises innovative approaches, and performs thorough assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions.

Responsibilities

• Apply a strong technical background and proactive attitude in support of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), understanding DARPA processes, procedures, and culture.
• Utilize technical skills to understand complex problems associated with DARPA programs while providing management support for day-to-day requirements.
• Support periodic (monthly or bi-weekly) performer assessments to analyze programmatic, technical, and schedule risks; assist in developing risk mitigation strategies and communicate findings to the Program Manager.
• Assist with program administration, including development of technical analyses, identification of technology gaps, technical risk management, project cost estimation, technology transfer efforts, and other program execution operations.
• Coordinate performer meetings, assess performer task progress and projected outcomes, and ensure project management best practices are followed.
• Support the DARPA Program Manager (PM) in strategic analyses, market research, special studies, and road mapping activities for improving planning, processes, and Science and Technology program investments.
• Monitor technical and programmatic progress of performers and keep the program manager informed through daily communications, monthly reports, and other reports as needed.
• Assist in preparation and execution of program reviews, gathering technical information and data on progress from performers.
• Liaise with and draft documents for technical PMs, business operations personnel, legal and contractual personnel, and administrative support staff; communicate complex issues clearly and effectively for senior executive audiences.
• Assist in planning and execution of conferences, symposia, workshops, steering groups, program reviews, and technical meetings; coordinate with government organizations and prepare program presentations.
• Provide input to draft briefings and letters for the PM, enabling responses to inquiries related to relevant programs; prepare briefings, reports, literature reviews, and documents to support new program concepts and technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience.
• Active DoD Secret clearance and eligible for TS/SCI.
• Interest in technology management, with technical skills to understand engineering challenges inherent to research efforts.
• Strong organization and communications skills, particularly in briefing preparation to present complex technology to senior leadership.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Able to work fully onsite in Arlington, VA.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Master's degree or PhD.
• Strong background in aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and aircraft performance analysis.
• Experience in real-time, 6-DOF air vehicle modeling and simulations.
• Proficiency with tools such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, MATLAB, or similar.
• Experience with aerodynamics ground testing and flight testing.
• 3+ years of experience working with, and strong relationships within, the Department of Defense—specifically OSD, USAF, or USN.

Benefits

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

• Health insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Retirement savings plans.
• Life and disability insurance programs.
• Programs that provide for both 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.

Pay

Salary range: $125,000 – $145,000 per year. Salaries are commensurate with experience, qualifications, and market considerations.