Communications Systems Engineer (Optical/Quantum)

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. • $160K — $215K *
Chantilly, VA 20152In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance required
  • Bachelor's or advanced degree in engineering, physics, or a related field with substantial experience
  • Knowledge of US government program management and acquisition lifecycle
  • Outstanding communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office
  • Willingness to work in Chantilly, VA, as needed.

Responsibilities

  • Perform technical reviews and risk assessments of optical and quantum communication systems
  • Evaluate innovative designs and technologies in optical communications
  • Assess and identify gaps in emerging technologies for space communications
  • Develop technology roadmaps and specifications for optical and quantum systems
  • Conduct outreach to gather operational needs from mission users
  • Prepare engineering documentation and strategic recommendation briefings
  • Support acquisition activities including lifecycle documentation and system integration planning.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Health savings accounts
  • Retirement savings plans
  • Life and disability insurance programs
  • Paid and unpaid time off options.
Full Job Description
Responsibilities

SPA has a immediate need for a Communications Systems Engineer with strong optical and quantum communications engineering experience to support specialized analysis, engineering, design, and operations for Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of War (DoW) customers. We support development of nextgeneration and farfuture national security systems across land, sea, air, and space domains. We are hiring a Communications Systems Engineer to provide systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) support to an IC Research & Development (R&D) customer developing advanced hardware, software, and architectural solutions for missioncritical optical and quantum communication systems.

  • Perform detailed technical reviews, assessments, and risk evaluations of optical and quantum communication system development efforts across component, subsystem, system, and architecture levels.
  • Evaluate designs and technologies such as optical terminals, free-space optical links, photonic components, entanglement-based communication architectures, and quantumenhanced optical subsystems.
  • Assess emerging technologies and identify gaps related to highbandwidth space links, advanced modulation formats, pointing and tracking systems, link budgets, networking performance, and secure quantumenabled transport architectures.
  • Support the creation of technology roadmaps, requirements, specifications, verification approaches, and transition strategies for modernizing optical and quantum systems.
  • Conduct technical outreach with mission users to capture operational needs and determine the applicability of emerging capabilities.
  • Prepare system engineering documentation, technical analyses, and programlevel briefings to convey findings and strategic recommendations.
  • Provide support to programmatic and acquisition activities such as source selections, lifecycle documentation, and system integration planning.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance at date of application
    • Please discuss specific polygraph requirements with an SPA Talent Acquisition professional
  • Bachelors degree in engineering, physics, or related discipline with 9+ years of experience; Masters and 7+ years of experience; PhD or JD and 4+ years of experience
  • Experience with USG program management and acquisition lifecycle processes and documentation
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and technical writing communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
  • Ability to report to designated work location in Chantilly, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

Desired Qualifications:

  • Masters degree in engineering, physics, or related discipline
  • 12+ years of relevant experience, including at least 4 years in optical or quantum communication systems
  • 1+ year of experience supporting USG R&D acquisition processes and documentation
  • Experience with spacebased optical terminals, quantum optical payloads, photonic systems, or advanced quantumenhanced communication architectures
Pay Range InformationAt 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. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $160,000.00/Yr. - USD $215,000.00/Yr.

About Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc.

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. Careers

Joining Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance a career in a leading-edge professional environment that is committed to innovation and leadership. This company is renowned for its strategic role in providing integral analysis and planning solutions across various sectors.

Explore Job Opportunities

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences. Whether one is a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, there is a position that can fit one's career aspirations and expertise. The company values diversity and strives to create an inclusive culture where every team member can thrive.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. provides robust internship programs designed to foster growth, enhance skills, and offer real-world experience in a supportive and dynamic environment. Internships are a stepping stone to full-time employment and offer invaluable networking opportunities within the company.

Professional Growth and Development

Commitment to professional growth is a cornerstone of Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. Employees are encouraged to pursue continuous improvement through various training programs, including leadership development and diversity training. The company supports career advancement with resources and tools that help individuals expand their knowledge and take on new challenges.

Benefits and Culture

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. is dedicated to supporting its employees with comprehensive benefits designed to promote a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as competitive retirement plans. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration are paramount.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. is designed to be transparent and efficient. Candidates can expect a thorough interview process where they can showcase their skills and learn more about the company's operations and values. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed resume and cover letter through the Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. careers page.

Networking and Career Opportunities

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. actively encourages its employees to engage in networking within the industry to enhance their career prospects. Regular company events and professional meet-ups provide platforms for employees to connect with industry leaders and peers.

Join the Team

Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. is continuously searching for passionate, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to make a significant impact. Explore the open positions that match your skills and interests on the Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc. jobs portal.

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Learn more about Systems Planning And Analysis, Inc.
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
* Ladders Estimates

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