Joint Force Development & Training HICON Subject Matter Expert; SME

Position Summary

We are seeking highly experienced Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to support U.S. Space Command Joint Force Development and Training Directorate (J7) exercise and training events. SMEs will provide organizational emulation, strategic analysis, operational planning support, and senior-level advisory services for major joint exercises, wargames, and tabletop exercises.

SMEs will lead efforts across the full exercise lifecycle using the Joint Exercise Life Cycle (JELC), integrating operational plans, campaign objectives, emerging threats, and strategic guidance into exercise and wargame events. This role requires expertise in space operations, joint exercise and wargaming, national security strategy, operational planning, and executive-level engagement with senior military and civilian leadership.

• Provide realistic organizational emulation during exercises, tabletop exercises, and wargames.
• Replicate strategic decision‑making processes for military, interagency, allied, and commercial organizations.
• Support contingency planning, operational analysis, and senior leader academic preparation.
• Conduct political military (POLMIL), operational, and strategic assessments.
• Develop executive‑level briefings, analyses, and strategic communications products.
• Support interagency and multinational coordination activities.
• Respond to exercise Requests for Information (RFIs) during execution phases.
• Participate in exercise planning conferences, rehearsals, and after‑action reviews.
• Assist in identifying operational gaps, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Contribute to post‑exercise reporting and lessons learned documentation.

• Active TS/SCI clearance required prior to start date.
• Bachelor’s degree and 10‑15+ years of operational, strategic, or military planning experience.
• Demonstrated experience at the Combatant Command, Joint Task Force, Service Component, or Headquarters level.
• Experience translating strategic guidance into operational objectives, training audiences, and exercise outcomes.
• Experience leading cross‑functional planning teams and coordinating with senior military and civilian leaders.
• Experience supporting Joint Planning Process (JPP), operational‑level planning teams, and Joint Exercise Program activities.
• Experience in applying all phases of the Joint Exercise Life Cycle (JELC).
• Demonstrated knowledge of joint doctrine, campaign planning, force employment, global integration, and Joint Force readiness.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Space Operations
  • Missile Defense
  • Homeland Defense
  • Cyber Operations
  • Joint Warfighting
  • Strategic Planning
  • Interagency Coordination
  • Political-Military Affairs
• Experience supporting joint exercises, wargames, or operational planning events.
• Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills.

• Former O‑5/O‑6, GS‑14/15, NH‑IV, or equivalent senior civilian professional.
• Recognized expertise in joint and space operations.
• Strong strategic communication and briefing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently and provide trusted advice to flag officers, SES personnel, and senior government leaders.
• Experience with NATO, multinational operations, or interagency collaboration.
• Knowledge of Special Technical Operations (STO) and/or Special Access Programs (SAP).
• Understanding of national space policy and international space law.

• Support may require 24‑hour exercise operations during event execution.
• Extended shifts may occur during major exercises.
• CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.

• Competitive salary
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Professional development opportunities

Position contingent upon contract award.

Summit is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.