STEM Scientist/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. 

SPA provides the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) technical expertise for decision support to ensure technical overmatch for the U.S. Armed Forces against any potential adversaries. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled exploring cutting-edge technology and helping government program managers evaluate, select, and manage research programs to transition promising technologies and ensure U.S. military forces retain technological superiority in the future. We have a near-term need for STEM Scientists/Engineers to provide onsite support in Arlington, VA.

SPA seeks a passionate and dedicated professionals interested in providing strategic, technical, and data-driven program support. The ideal candidate can solve challenging, unstructured, and time-critical problems, primarily supporting DoD R&D organizations. Will help develop and guide program strategy and execution from ideation through the development and implementation of competitively-awarded solicitations, developing performer milestones and metrics, assessing performer progress and risks, and conducting active outreach and planning for technology transition. Assist the clients in validating the strategy and vision across a portfolio, adapting to policy changes and technical developments. Work with our multidisciplinary team to define technology gaps and develop and execute initiatives to improve program management processes and program impact. Articulate alignment of science and technology strategy and roadmaps to future warfighting concepts and coordinate alignment of diverse stakeholders’ efforts. Apply ability to communicate verbally, in writing, and visually at in-depth technical and executive levels, and the ability to think fast, be highly adaptive, get results quickly, and be comfortable in a fast-paced, high stakes, high visibility environment.

Required:

• Active Secret clearance
• Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM field
• 7 or more years of experience and increasing responsibility supporting and leading Research and Development projects across the entire lifecycle (ideation, planning, execution, management, and delivery)
• Ability to operate independently and to provide guidance to teams executing complex research and technology development tasks
• Demonstrated ability to present complex information in digestible forms for senior leaders

Desired:

• Expertise in fields of Quantum, Optics, Photonics, Physics, Materials, Artificial intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, or Human Performance
• Graduate degree in a STEM field, with published articles in the field of expertise
• Program Management Professional or equivalent certification
• DARPA experience 
• Top Secret/SCI clearance