Critical Manufacturing SME

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high‑impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. SPA serves a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities for customers across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets, helping them make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

Below is an urgent opportunity for a Project Technical Lead – Research Scientist to provide hybrid support to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from 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, supporting case reviews, investigations, threat assessments, and special projects. Identify cybersecurity and technology risks posed to U.S. national security by foreign transactions and/or ownership and involvement in licensing activities, relying on specialized knowledge in national security, law enforcement, and cybersecurity and technology topics in core areas such as networks and telecommunications, data security, supply chain risk management, critical manufacturing, and emerging technologies.

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 including open‑source intelligence research, 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.