Junior Systems Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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 Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) 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.
The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic and analytical support to customers with missions in national security to include the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields of countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, nuclear non-proliferation, weapons deployment programs, and transportation safety. In addition to management and advisory services, CIG staff collaborate closely with our clients to provide high-quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet the most demanding government standards and timelines.
We have an immediate need for a Jr. Systems Engineer to provide onsite/hybrid support in the DC/Northern Virginia Area.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a Jr. Systems Engineer to join the DHS Acquisition Management team. This role provides systems engineering support focused on DHS policies, governance, and oversight of both Major and Non-Major acquisition programs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support analysis, evaluation, and optimization of acquisition processes, ensuring compliance with Federal regulations and DHS directives. This position plays a critical role in supporting effective and efficient program execution, mitigating risks, and enhancing overall mission outcomes in homeland security initiatives. Support comprehensive reviews and assessments of Major and Non-Major acquisition programs, including requirements analysis, risk management, and performance metrics. Perform technical analyses, briefings, and recommendations to inform strategic decisions. This includes synthesizing complex data on program status, cost, schedule, and technical performance to facilitate informed oversight and resource allocation. Collaborate with acquisition teams to implement systems engineering best practices to ensure programs are executed efficiently. Monitor program milestones, evaluate trade-offs, and support corrective actions to address deviations and improve outcomes. Perform verification and validation of acquisition artifacts, ensuring adherence to governance frameworks. Prepare reports and presentations for oversight bodies like the Acquisition Review Board (ARB). Stay abreast of emerging systems engineering trends, tools, and methodologies relevant to DHS missions. Contribute to policy updates, training programs, and process enhancements to elevate acquisition maturity.
Qualifications
Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• 1+ years of experience in systems engineering, with experience supporting Federal acquisition programs, preferably within DHS or DoD.
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability/CBP Background Investigation.
• Superior communication skills for working with team members and drafting technical documents.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment with competing priorities.
• Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.

Desired:

• Knowledge of DHS policies, including MD 102-01 and related acquisition instructions.
• Demonstrated experience in overseeing Major Acquisition Programs (e.g., ACAT I/II equivalents) and familiarity with DHS Acquisition Lifecycle Framework (ALF).
• CBP Background Investigation or Active DoD Secret or Top Secret clearance.
• Prior involvement in DHS-specific programs such as CBRN systems, border security, and immigration systems.

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. VA Pay Transparency Salary range: $70k-$100K
Pay Range Information
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, DC, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $70,000.00/Yr. - USD $100,000.00/Yr.