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Defense Tech Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Defense Tech information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Tech, you need a solid background in electronics, mechanical systems, troubleshooting, and typically a relevant technical certification or associate degree. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, military-grade equipment, and maintenance management systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure equipment reliability, mission readiness, and the safety of personnel relying on defense technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Defense Tech, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Defense Tech often encounter challenges such as navigating strict security protocols, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams across government and private sectors. Staying up to date with compliance standards and cybersecurity requirements is essential. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a proactive approach to learning can help address these challenges, ensuring successful project delivery and career growth in this highly regulated and innovative field.

What is Defense Tech?

Defense Tech, short for defense technology, refers to the development and application of advanced technologies for military and national security purposes. This field encompasses a wide range of innovations, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, surveillance systems, weaponry, and communication networks designed to support defense operations. Professionals in Defense Tech work with government agencies, military contractors, and private companies to create solutions that enhance security, efficiency, and strategic capabilities. As threats evolve, the industry continuously seeks new and improved technologies to stay ahead and protect national interests.

What job pays 400,000 a year without a degree?

In defense technology, high-paying roles such as specialized cybersecurity consultants or senior engineering positions can reach or exceed $400,000 annually, often requiring extensive experience, technical skills, and security clearances rather than a formal degree. These roles typically involve working with advanced systems, software, or hardware in secure environments and may require certifications or specialized training.

What is the difference between Defense Tech vs Cybersecurity Specialist?

AspectDefense TechCybersecurity Specialist
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, technical certifications (e.g., CISSP, CompTIA Security+)Certifications like CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, defense contractors, government agenciesCorporate offices, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in defense and military sectorsBroadly across private and public sectors
Job FocusDeveloping and maintaining defense systems, secure communicationsProtecting networks, incident response, vulnerability assessment

Defense Tech and Cybersecurity Specialist roles share certifications and work environments but differ mainly in their focus areas. Defense Tech emphasizes defense systems and military applications, while Cybersecurity Specialists focus on protecting data and networks across various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Tech jobs in Washington? For Defense Tech jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Tech jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Tech jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Defense Tech jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Defense Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Tech job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Defense Technology Transition SME

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Defense Technology Transition Subject Matter Expert

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 Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future.

We have an immediate need for a Defense Technology Transition Subject Matter Expert to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA.

Responsibilities

The Defense Technology Transition SME will play a pivotal role as a member of DARPA's Select Program Engagements, Enablement & Deployment (SPEED) Team, accelerating the transition of cutting-edge DARPA technologies to the warfighter. Primary focus will be in serving as an operational analysis expert, serving as DARPA liaison to external operational analysis groups as well as planning and executing DARPA operational analyses for select programs, and developing custom program transition strategies. The individual will apply demonstrated skills in researching and evaluating the potential of emerging technologies to enhance warfighting capabilities and incorporating those into relevant operational assessments. The ideal candidate possesses a unique blend of technical expertise, operational understanding, exceptional communication skills, and proven relationship-building abilities. The SME will be responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of DARPA programs, strategically coordinating transition activities, developing transition strategies, and diligently tracking financial milestones.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in a STEM discipline or equivalent Master's from a Professional Military Education (PME) school
  • Active TS/SCI clearance and SAP eligible
  • 20+ years of professional work experience
  • Understanding of military structure with experience working in DoW/DARPA or other Federal Level Service
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentations skills with the ability to communicate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Experience in planning and execution of Operational Analyses
  • Experience transitioning technology into programs of record within OSW
  • Understanding of Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and how to integrate with Operational Analyses
  • Ability to implement stakeholder management to cultivate relationships with Program Managers, Combatant Command personnel, industry partners, and other key government stakeholders.
  • Ability to report to Arlington, VA up to full-time based upon client needs.

Desired:

  • PhD in a scientific or technological discipline
  • 15+ years working in an R&D environment, or working with R&D programs
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the OSW Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) process