CHIPS Technical 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 spanning national security and advanced technology sectors. CIG specializes in building technical expertise, guiding program planning, and enabling innovation across a broad spectrum of emerging domains.

We have an upcoming need for a Technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) CHIPS R&D Office (CRDO) and lifecycle management of Broad Agency Announcements (BAA), program planning, and the identification of emerging research opportunities in semiconductors and microtechnology domains. This position will leverage subject matter expertise across the semiconductor ecosystem, including materials science, lithography, and emerging areas such as AI-enabled design, quantum, biotechnology, and heterogeneous integration.

The Technical SME will assist CRDO in shaping forward-looking initiatives or requests for applications that will strengthen U.S. leadership in semiconductor innovation. This position will operate out of Northern Virginia in support of customers in the Washington DC Metropolitan region.

The Technical SME will provide high-level technical expertise in support of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) and related objectives under the CHIPS Act. This role focuses on evaluating emerging research areas, conducting technical reviews, and developing program plans that align with strategic priorities in semiconductors and advanced technologies.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Lifecycle Support for Broad Agency Announcements (BAA): Lead or contribute to technical efforts related to the CHIPS BAA lifecycle, including development of requirements, response evaluations, providing feedback, and monitoring awardee organizations for progress.
• Technical Expertise in Emerging Areas: Apply subject matter expertise to evaluate potential focus areas, emerging technologies, and research trends aligned with the CRDO’s strategic objectives. Key areas of focus include:
  • Semiconductors and advanced microelectronics technologies.
  • Materials science and lithography for semiconductor development.
  • AI-enabled design for advanced semiconductor research and development.
  • Application of quantum technology for advanced microelectronics research and development.
  • Application of biotechnology and biomanufacturing technology for advanced microelectronics research and development.
  • Heterogeneous integration techniques to improve semiconductor capabilities.
  • Standards development and technology commercialization.
• Strategic Program Planning: Provide insights into long-term program development strategies and assist CRDO leadership in prioritizing research topics and focus areas. Support the shaping of forward-looking initiatives or requests for applications that will strengthen U.S. leadership in semiconductor innovation.
• Technical Evaluations and Assessments: Conduct robust evaluations of innovation proposals and technological concepts, synthesizing feedback to refine program requirements and enhance decision-making.
• Research on Emerging Trends: Stay abreast of cutting-edge developments across domains such as…