SLCM-N Systems Engineer

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 Strategic Division (SD) supports high-reliability organizations including Navy Strategic Systems Programs (SSP), Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, and the Department of Energy (DOE), among others. Our support across our client base is expanding rapidly and encompasses important services, such as data analytics and visualization, threat analysis, risk management, modeling and simulation, cost estimating, earned value management, program management, system engineering, independent evaluation, and High Consequence Event prevention.

SPA's Strategic Division's Regional Strike System Group (RSSG) supports critical U.S. government programs providing Systems Engineering, Systems Safety, Modelling, Master Scheduling, and Financial Analysis support. RSSG is hiring for a mid-level Systems Engineer in Washington, DC (Maritime Plaza) supporting the Nuclear-Armed, Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N) Program Office in early 2026.

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain 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. Washington D.C. Pay Transparency Salary range: $100,000-$170,000.

Responsibilities
Join a dynamic and mission-critical team dedicated to enhancing our nation's strategic capabilities. As a Mid-Level Systems Engineer for the SLCM-N program, you will play a pivotal role in the development and execution of a comprehensive risk-reduction test missile program. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the engineering design, flight test planning, and systems integration efforts for a major defense acquisition program. You will be responsible for identifying potential system risks and developing innovative test solutions to mature missile technologies and ensure program success.

• Support the development of a missile test program by defining test objectives, methodologies, and detailed flight test plans.
• Develop and manage test requirements, verification, and validation strategies to ensure that test campaigns effectively burn down program risk and inform critical design decisions.
• Prepare and present technical briefings, test readiness reviews, and engineering recommendations to program leadership and government stakeholders.
• Serve as a liaison between the government program office and numerous prime defense contractors and external stakeholders.
• Assist in the establishment and logistical management of several working groups which may include any of the following: program safety, logistics, flight tests, requirements, and mission planning.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• Active DoD SECRET security clearance with the ability to gain and maintain a DoD TOP SECRET clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or a related technical field.
• 5-8 years of professional experience in one or more of the following: aerospace/defense systems engineering, missile systems or launch vehicles, safety systems engineering, Navy submarine programs, and nuclear weapons surety.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive tasks to completion.
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.

Desired Qualifications

• Active DoD TOP SECRET security clearance.
• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Prior experience in a rapid prototyping or technology demonstration environment.
• Experience preparing and delivering briefings to senior/executive leadership.