AI/ML Systems 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.

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.!

The Intelligence Programs Group (IPG), part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, is a specialized provider of systems engineering and trusted advisory services to the Space and National Intelligence community. We utilize mission-proven, data-driven advisory tools and capabilities. We provide highly technical support to ensure the government acquires cutting edge technology necessary for our National Defense. Our portfolio includes the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Come where you will be part of our high-caliber team!

SPA has an immediate need for a AI/ML Systems Engineer.

The AI/ML Systems Engineer will serve a USG Program Office leading Research & Development (R&D) of evolutionary, revolutionary, and transformational artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. This position provides Systems Engineering & Technical Advisory (SETA) support services.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Evaluation of advanced AI/ML concepts, systems, technologies, designs, architectures, interfaces into space and ground systems.
• Support Agile SAFe program development processes and activities.
• Assist USG Program Office with analysis of alternatives to optimize technical, cost, and schedule performance considerations and improve knowledge and understanding of system, technology, and architecture tradeoffs.
• Provide technical and programmatic support through the entire project lifecycle including concept development, system definition, acquisition planning, source selection, system design, development, integration and test, system delivery, and deployment.
• Work with government technical and contracts staff developing program acquisition packages.
• Provide briefings and reports including technical and programmatic assessments presenting analysis, results, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Provide acquisition advisory services during technical and cost evaluations of proposals.

Required Qualifications:

• US Citizen with active TS/SCI clearance with Poly at time of application
  • Please discuss specific polygraph requirements with an SPA Talent Acquisition professional
• Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math discpline from an accredited university
• 9+ years of experience with bachelors; 7+ years with masters; 4+ years with PhD or JD
• AI/ML experience
• Acquisition support experience
• Proficient skills using Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Sharepoint)
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Interpersonal and communication skills for written reports, group discussion, and oral presentations
• Ability to report to designated work location in Chantilly, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience in one of more of the following:
  • Systems engineering and integration applied to spacecraft, ground, and launch systems
  • R&D of artificial intelligence/machine learning agents
  • System acquisition, design, development, integration, test, and/or flight operations
  • Small Satellite (SmallSat) systems (single vehicles, clusters, and/or constellations)
  • Artificial Intelligence and/or Machine Learning technologies applied to space systems
  • System modeling & simulation and/or system performance analysis
  • IC mission, organizations, disciplines, systems, and/or processes