Operations Research Analyst Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.

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 Strategic Technology Analysis Group, part of SPA’s Space and Intelligence Division, offers sophisticated capabilities (people, process & tools) to resolve unique problems in space, cyber, and special operations in support to military services, Secretary of Defense offices (OSD) and theater warfighters.  Our portfolio includes the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration (SAF/SQ), Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC), Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), National Space Defense Center (NSDC), Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO), US Space Command (USSPACECOM) and US Space Force (USSF).  Come be a part of a high-speed low-drag organization providing unique and tailored solutions for our National Defense!

SPA has an immediate need for a highly qualified Operations Research Analyst Subject Matter Expert (SME).

Specific responsibilities include supporting HQ US Space Operations Command (SpOC)/S2Z as a contract staff member responsible for assisting the headquarters’ Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution activities and other DoD or IC processes of the Space Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) enterprise through developmental engineering, architectural development, systems engineering, intelligence, and operational analysis. Scopes, designs, integrates, and operationalize existing and new units/capabilities across Space ISR Deltas. Provide analytic support to capabilities-based assessments (CBA), analysis of alternatives (AoA), technology research, material solutions analysis, program management, engineering studies, architecture development, and requirements definition using modeling and simulation tools as well as model-based systems engineering (MBSE) processes. The results from these activities justify research and development-related investment resources to field future Space ISR systems.

Duties Include:

• Analyze, model and simulate operational scenarios to determine effective ISR force options utilizing government and industry standard tools, MBSE, and physics-based applications.
• Utilize modeling and simulation and other studies to support an Analysis of Alternatives to estimate perspective capability performance and define acquisition tradespace within program cost, schedule, and performance.
• Determine the level of necessary analytic rigor required for studies based on the complexity of the mission being assessed, the consequences of operational failure, and the uncertainties of the supporting data considered.
• Provide support for the technical evaluation of ISR capabilities required by warfighters and make recommendations on areas worthy of follow-on assessment.
• Analyze mission area technologies and deliver Mission Area Technology Assessment Reports on key technologies.
• Study, assess, and recommend innovative technologies for further development/testing and, as necessary, transition planning and support.
• Support longer-term capability mission area-related development activities of programs of record to enhance Space ISR capabilities.
• Work with organizations such as Joint Staff, USSPACECOM, USSTRATCOM, DoD/OSD, SAF/HAF, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), 16th AF, SPOs/Centers (i.e. Space Systems Command, Space Rapid Capabilities Office), NRO, DIA, NSA, and other US agencies and mission partners to assist in understanding the Space Force’s strategic priorities and direction.
• Prepare/deliver briefings/talking papers aimed at the development of future space ISR missions, including a summation of key issues and recommendations to the Government.
• Interact directly with both the Space Staff and Air Staff, Field Commands, Space Deltas, operational ISR squadrons, and defense agencies to assist in identifying and defining operational deficiencies and to integrate total force capabilities.
• Attend conferences and other technical exchanges and provide reports as required, including summations of key issues and recommendations.

• SECURITY CLEARANCE: TS/SCI (SAP/SAR eligible)
• MS in Operations Research or Engineering is highly desired but may substitute relevant experience/certifications in Space, Cyberspace, and/or ISR missions
• 10+ years space, cyberspace, and/or ISR operations experience including 5+ years MAJCOM/Field Command headquarters experience
• Experience working in classified (SAP/SAR) space environment
• Knowledge and experience in mathematical modeling, optimization methods
• Knowledge and skills utilizing physics-based modeling tools (e.g., Systems Tool Kit [STK] or equivalent)
• Knowledge and experience utilizing MBSE and enterprise architecture tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture or equivalent with an ability to synchronize these tools with physics-based modeling
• Knowledge and experience utilizing cloud-based computing resources, including servers, storage, databases, networking, and software
• Experience with AF instruction documents and HQ SpOC supplements, using HQ SpOC and HQ USSF tool sets (e.g., TMT/NGeS, and MS Office)
• Comprehension of preparation, development, review, and coordination processes with documents and deliverables across all security levels (Unclassified, Secret, TS/SCI, SAP/SAR)

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain the top talent.  Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.  

SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.  

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.

Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only.  Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.  Colorado Pay Transparency Range:  180k - 200k