OverviewSPA has an immediate need for an Undersea Warfare SME.
Responsibilities
The successful candidate will provide high-level Subject Matter Expert (SME) support for Undersea Warfare (USW) and tactical employment of Submarine systems. Operating full-time within secure spaces in Chantilly, VA, the selected candidate will lead water space deconfliction planning management, software test execution, and workflow optimization. This critical position requires a unique blend of deep operational system experience, tactical oceanography and underwater sound propagation, schedule management capabilities, and the ability to integrate emerging decision support tools into daily warfighter workflows. You should have an understanding of high-fidelity underwater environments with 2D and 3D visualizations for modeling of SONAR propagation paths and performance along with knowledge of sensors from Low to High Frequency bands and the tactical implications and limitations of both.
- Lead the development, coordination, and execution of comprehensive software test plans and operational test oversight for next-generation Undersea Warfare systems.
- Establish, evaluate, and continuously optimize "day in the life" operational workflows (CONOPS) to seamlessly integrate new tactical decision support capabilities.
- Coordinate and drive operational system reviews across the range of transition partner DOTMLP-F areas and collaborate closely with cross-functional technical and operational teams.
- Manage program schedules, track performance metrics, and ensure deliverables meet overarching program requirements and priorities.
- Translate complex tactical USW operational requirements into clear, technical directions for software engineering and development teams.
- Apply adaptive problem-solving skills to resolve complex system integration, testing, and operational bottlenecks dynamically during execution.
- Provide strategic direction to maintain project alignment and manage program schedules across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Foster collaboration, build consensus, and maintain strong partnerships among military, civilian, and contractor stakeholders.
- Communicate complex technical findings and data-driven recommendations effectively to a diverse audience of senior military leaders, program managers, and engineers.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Must possess an active TS/SCI clearance at time of application
- Bachelor27s degree in a STEM discipline (or equivalent operational experience in lieu of a degree)
- 10+ years of experience working directly with Defense Department operational details and programs
- Extensive operational background in Undersea Warfare (USW), Theater Anti-Submarine Warfare (TASW), and Waterspace Deconfliction/Management
- Proven experience in software test planning, execution oversight, and the utilization of tactical Decision Support Tools
- Demonstrated ability to manage program schedules, track performance, and coordinate cross-functional team workflows
- Solid understanding of the defense industry, military command structures, and acquisition environments
- Able to support travel up to 25% to 50% of the time
- Location: Must have the ability to work full-time on-site in secure spaces (SCIF) in the Chantilly, VA area
Desired Qualifications
- 10+ years of active-duty service with prior experience serving under a Theater Undersea Warfare Commander (TUSWC) highly preferred.
- Knowledge of Undersea Warfare Decision Support System, SONAR Tactical Decision Aide, STAPLE Toolkit
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.Salary pay range: 200k - 225k
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 $200,000.00/Yr. - USD $225,000.00/Yr.
