Senior Project Technical Lead

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 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.

SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future.

We have a near-term need for a Project Technical Lead to provide onsite support out of DARPA in Arlington, VA.

Responsibilities

The candidate will apply a strong technical background and a proactive attitude in support of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and will be motivated to learn or already understand DARPA processes, procedures, and culture. The candidate will utilize technical skills to understand the complex problems associated with DARPA programs, while simultaneously providing the necessary management support to execute the day-to-day requirements. Will support periodic (monthly or bi-weekly) performer assessments to analyze programmatic, technical, and schedule risks and communicate findings to the Program Manager. Assess performer task progress and projected performer outcomes with a program team. Monitor both the technical and programmatic progress of various performers and keep the Program Manager abreast of progress through daily communications, monthly reports, and other reports as needed. Assist in preparation and execution of various reviews of programs, gathering technical information and data on progress and accomplishments from the various performers. Provide input to draft briefings, and draft letters for the Program Manager, enabling the Program Manager to respond to inquiries related to the relevant programs; prepare briefings, reports, literature reviews, and documents to support the development and approval of new program concepts and technologies.

This is a full-time on-site position in Arlington, VA. Up to 15% travel may be required.

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's degree in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM); may substitute a non-technical degree with demonstrated technical acumen.
• 20+ years of experience with at least 10 years of extensive experience, background, and knowledge of one or more TTO or similar DARPA programs.
• Recognized as a lead authority in one or more technical or scientific fields.
• Demonstrated skills in conceiving, planning, and conducting research and analysis in difficult technological problem areas requiring novel approaches.
• Active DoW TS/SCI clearance.
• Self-starter with excellent oral and written communication skills, with mature judgment and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with software suites such as Microsoft 365, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability to work fully onsite at DARPA's HQ in Arlington, VA.

Desired:

• PhD in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM). 
• At least 5 years of experience working in or with DARPA.
• Prior experience as a DARPA Program Manager or senior SETA contractor.

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. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $175,000.00/Yr. - USD $219,000.00/Yr.