Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer SME

Overview

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.

The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic and analytical support to customers with missions in national security to include the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields of countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, nuclear non-proliferation, weapons deployment programs, and transportation safety. In addition to management and advisory services, CIG staff collaborate closely with our clients to provide high-quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet the most demanding government standards and timelines.

We have an immediate need for an Operation Test and Evaluation Engineer SME to provide onsite and hybrid support out of Northern Virginia and the DC area.

Responsibilities

The SME Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Engineer will support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission and will be responsible for leading, planning, conducting, and analyzing tests of homeland defense technology systems to ensure operational effectiveness, reliability, and suitability throughout their lifecycle. This role focuses on evaluating systems designed to secure U.S. borders and facilitate the lawful flow of commerce, ensuring compliance with DHS policies and operational requirements in realistic environments. Responsible for coordinating closely with government clients to understand mission needs, translating those expectations into clear test objectives, and ensuring seamless communication throughout the testing lifecycle. Provide strong team leadership by guiding test engineers, aligning resources, and fostering a collaborative environment that supports efficient execution while enforcing rigorous quality control measures to guarantee accuracy, compliance, and high‑quality deliverables. Design, develop, and direct operational test plans for homeland defense technologies, such as border surveillance systems, non-intrusive inspection equipment, and trade facilitation systems. Ensure adherence to DHS Acquisition Management Directive (MD 102-01) and CBP’s Operational Requirements Document (ORD) processes. Develop and coordinate Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), test concepts, and detailed test plans aligned with DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation) and CBP mission needs. Collaborate with CBP’s Office of Acquisition and operational stakeholders to align testing with mission objectives. Collect and analyze test data to assess the performance, reliability, and suitability of systems like integrated fixed towers, remote video surveillance systems, and cargo scanning technologies in operational border environments. Maintain critical documentation, including test plans, reports, and recommendations for system improvements. Prepare Operational Test Reports (OTRs) and briefings for CBP leadership and DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to support acquisition decisions. Work with CBP officers, engineers, program managers, and DHS components to ensure effective testing. Engage with external partners, such as other DHS components or interagency partners, to align testing with broader homeland security objectives. Execute and chair test events, including integrated test planning meetings, Deficiency Review Boards, Safety Review Boards, and Operational Readiness Reviews. Participate in critical design reviews and other meetings to support OT&E execution for border security and trade systems. Ensure testing adheres to DHS policies, including the DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) and the DHS Risk Management Framework. Address risks related to border security operations and trade facilitation.

Qualifications

Required:

• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability/CBP Background Investigation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in test design, data analysis, and statistical methods for evaluating complex systems.
• Hands-on experience with homeland defense technology systems, such as border surveillance, non-intrusive inspection technologies, or trade compliance systems.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating system performance and excellent written and verbal communication skills to provide actionable recommendations.
• Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time based on test event needs.

Desired:

• Active CBP Background Investigation or an Active Top Secret clearance.
• In-depth understanding of DHS policies, including MD 102-01 (Acquisition Management), DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation), and the DHS SELC framework.
• Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, digital engineering, or data management platforms to support testing.
• Familiarity with data analytics tools for processing large datasets from border security operations or trade compliance systems.
• Experience leading teams, and leading or participating in working groups or cross-agency technical initiatives.
• Knowledge of interagency coordination with entities like the Department of Defense (DoD) or Department of Justice (DOJ) for joint homeland security missions.

Pay Range Information

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. 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, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Washington, DC, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $140,000.00/Yr. - USD $188,000.00/Yr.