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 Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

JOID assists the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in developing leading edge technologies to counter WMD in support of CCMDs and transitioning these technologies to military services and COCOMs. SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) WMD, Counter Improvised Threat and Countering Threat Network technologies to support understanding, detection, identification, characterization, denial, control, disabling, defeating, disposing, safeguarding the force, managing consequences, and test and evaluation in support of military and civilian operations.

We have an upcoming need for an Engagement Scientist to provide onsite support out of Lorton, VA.

SPA is seeking a smart, energetic, and dedicated candidate with a background in the sciences to provide analytical support to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) R&D Directorate to support and develop DTRA RD’s international engagements and cooperation strategies. The candidate will provide scientific subject matter expertise (primarily chem/bio) to advise and support DTRA RD’s International Branch in their engagements with the Joint Scientific and Technology Organization (JSTO), the Coalition Warfare Program (CWP), and requirement owners across RD’s CBRN and CWMD portfolio to facilitate technical international partner coordination. Apply scientific background to serve as an operational asset on projects, analyzing problems, and assisting leadership with decision making analysis. Apply understanding and work to mitigate RD CWMD capability gaps by assisting in setting project and product-level strategy and priorities for international engagements, ensuring RD portfolios are responsive and mapped to DTRA’s international strategic goals. Will support teammates with international engagement and coordination of projects and plans; participate in and promote interagency coordination; coordinate and support senior-level foreign visits; and help justify, develop, negotiate, and staff international agreements.

Travel up to 20%, including some overseas trips.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Engineering, or a relevant Physical Science field with minimum of 3-5 years of relevant work experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong people skills with the ability to build and sustain key relationships.
• A confident self-starter who takes the initiative on projects and activities.
• Active DoD Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI.

Desired:

• Master’s degree or PhD in Chemistry, Biology, or a related field and 5-7 years of experience.
• International cooperation or coordination experience.
• CWMD/CBRN knowledge and experience.
• Active TS/SCI DoD clearance.
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