1

Darpa Seta Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technical SETA - MTO with Security Clearance

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

ECS seeks a Technical Science, Engineering, and Technical Advisory (SETA) candidate to provide onsite support to DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office (MTO). MTO is a unique technical office whose ...

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

We have a near-term need for a Technical SETA to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA ... Support the DARPA PM in strategic analyses, market research, special studies, and road mapping ...

Everforth ECS is seeking a Program Manager - DARPA BTO SETA Support to work onsite in our Arlington, VA office. Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. ECS is pursuing a ...

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

We have a near-term need for a Technical SETA to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA ... Support the DARPA PM in strategic analyses, market research, special studies, and road mapping ...

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

We have a near-term need for a Technical SETA to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA ... Support the DARPA PM in strategic analyses, market research, special studies, and road mapping ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Darpa Seta information

See salary details

$11K

$77.9K

$122K

How much do darpa seta jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa seta in the United States is $77,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working as DARPA SETA (Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance) contractors, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in DARPA SETA roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, protecting sensitive information, and navigating complex stakeholder relationships. To address these, it's important to stay flexible, maintain strong communication skills, and adhere strictly to security protocols. Collaborating closely with DARPA program managers and other contractors helps ensure alignment with mission objectives and program requirements. Building a strong professional network within the agency can also help in anticipating changes and accessing necessary resources.

What are DARPA SETA contractors?

DARPA SETA (Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance) contractors are professionals who provide specialized technical expertise, engineering support, and program management assistance to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). They are not government employees but work alongside DARPA staff to help develop, evaluate, and manage cutting-edge research projects. SETA contractors play a crucial role in advising on technology development, ensuring program success, and maintaining the integrity of DARPA’s mission by offering unbiased, objective guidance.

What is the difference between Darpa Seta vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDarpa SetaCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized training in defense projectsCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, classified projectsPrivate companies, government agencies, cybersecurity firms
Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military sectorsBroadly in IT, finance, healthcare, and government sectors

Darpa Seta roles focus on defense-related projects requiring security clearances and work within government or military environments. Cybersecurity Analysts work across various industries, focusing on protecting digital assets and networks. While both roles involve security, Darpa Seta is specialized in defense projects, whereas Cybersecurity Analysts have a broader industry application.

What is a DARPA SETA job?

A DARPA SETA (Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance) job involves providing specialized technical and analytical support to DARPA program managers. SETA contractors are not government employees but work closely with DARPA to assist in managing research programs, evaluating technologies, and ensuring project success. They offer expertise in fields such as engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense technologies. SETA personnel help shape cutting-edge innovation while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and agency objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA SETA (Science, Engineering, and Technical Assistance), and why are they important?

To thrive as a DARPA SETA, you need a strong background in science or engineering, typically with an advanced degree and relevant technical expertise. Familiarity with government contracting processes, project management tools, and security clearance requirements is essential. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help SETAs effectively support program managers and interface with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure that technical advice and project oversight are both rigorous and aligned with DARPA's mission to drive innovation in defense technologies.
What cities are hiring for Darpa Seta jobs? Cities with the most Darpa Seta job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Darpa Seta jobs? The most popular types of Darpa Seta jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Seta jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Seta jobs are:
Infographic showing various Darpa Seta job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $77,940 per year, or $37.5 per hour.
Technical SETA Lead - BTO with Security Clearance

Technical SETA Lead - BTO with Security Clearance

ECS

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Description Everforth ECS is seeking a Technical SETA Lead - BTO to work in our Arlington, VA (hybrid work schedule) office. Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. ECS seeks a Technical Science, Engineering, and Technical Advisory (SETA) candidate to provide onsite support to DARPA's Biological Technologies Office (BTO). BTO is a unique technical office that leverages the power of biology as a technology to develop revolutionary capabilities for the Department of Defense. BTO's mission focuses on ensuring U.S. technological dominance by pioneering breakthroughs in areas such as human performance, out-pacing infectious diseases, synthetic biology, neurotechnology, and the development of resilient biological systems. The successful candidate will serve as a functional lead for all Technical SETAs under this contract. The candidate will also support a DARPA Program Manager (PM) by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test coordination, and coordination with members of the Department of Defense and interagency partners for transition. The candidate will also be responsible for coordinating meetings, assessing performer technical progress, projecting performer outcomes, and ensuring that project management best practices are followed by performers, independent verification and validation (IV&V) entities funded by DARPA, and within DARPA itself. Duties range from developing point papers, slide decks, and other materials that convey the need, status, and importance of a program to researching unique biological and biotechnological problem sets to aid in National Security priorities. Required Skills * Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a DoD Secret clearance. * PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a closely related field. * 3+ years of experience in a research or technical advisory capacity. * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn new subjects and gain rapid insights into current and next-generation research topics, preferably with hands-on leadership of research programs at the performer level in multidisciplinary fields (e.g., the intersection of biology and materials science or electronics). Desired Skills * Prior experience as a Tech SETA supporting a DARPA Technical Office. * Experience working a program through its full life cycle (from concept development to transition). * Experience with technical research, development, and engineering across a breadth of applied biotechnology projects. * Familiarity with the DARPA technical, programmatic, and contractual environment. * Self-starter who is willing to both take the lead and provide support in a team within a complex, fast-paced, cross-disciplinary work environment. * Experience interfacing with the FDA, NIH, or other regulatory/health-focused government agencies. ECS Federal LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis any characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local jurisdiction law. is the federal segment of , a $4B global organization with over 10,000 employees. Our nearly 3,500 professionals deliver advanced technology solutions in data and AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise transformation, serving defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Our work powers mission-critical outcomes, strengthens technology partnerships, and creates meaningful opportunities for our people. We are defined by a commitment to excellence in delivery, a culture of innovation, and an environment where talent can thrive and grow. We value: * Attracting and developing top talent and high-performing teams * Fostering a culture that is engaging, accountable, and mission-driven Meet the challenge. Make a difference with Everforth ECS!