Project Technical Lead - Research Scientist

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 a near-term need for a Project Technical Lead - Research Scientist to provide hybrid support for DHS out of SPA HQ in Alexandria, VA.

Provide subject matter expertise, skills, and services necessary to conduct research and analysis of evolving cybersecurity and technology risk areas within client equities and in support of client case reviews and investigations, threat assessments, and special projects through the identification of cybersecurity and technology risk posed to U.S. national security by foreign transactions and/or ownership and involvement in licensing activities. This requires complex analysis relying on specialized knowledge in national security, law enforcement, and cybersecurity and technology topics in core areas of interest including, but not limited to: networks and telecommunications, data security and cybersecurity, supply chain risk management, and critical manufacturing and emerging technologies. Provide routine services necessary to support the efficient analytic workflow, information, and knowledge management of client cases, reviews, and various program support projects. Conduct open-source intelligence research, risk analysis, and risk communication. Apply specialized capabilities in core areas of interest, including but not limited to open-source intelligence research and analysis, supply chain risk management, and financial risk analysis.

Required:

• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in STEM field, with preference given to advanced degree and/or experience in a field closely related to a core area of FIRB cybersecurity and technology interest or the emerging and critical technology areas listed below.
• 10+ years of experience in policy development and strategic planning, manufacturing environments, the implementation of quality assurance processes, and/or technical implementation or development in at least one emerging and critical technology relevant to CISA equities, including Biotechnology, Semiconductors and microelectronics, Quantum information systems/computing, and Artificial intelligence (AI).
• Widely recognized certifications such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) may substitute for up to 2 years of work experience, depending on the level and relevance.
• Demonstrated evidence of ongoing education and training to keep up with industry advancements and maintain adaptability to new technologies and processes.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and analysis in an area related to cybersecurity and technology interest.
• Demonstrated analytic writing and communication ability.
• Demonstrated ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.