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Senior Subject Matter Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Subject Matter Expert Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid) Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance and DHS suitability, as required by federal ...

Senior Subject Matter Expert Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid) Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance and DHS suitability, as required by federal ...

Senior Subject Matter Expert Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid) Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance and DHS suitability, as required by federal ...

$68K - $84K/yr

Senior Subject Matter Expert Signature Reduction Location : Fort Bragg, NC Clearance Type: Top Secret Responsibilities: * Assist and conduct signature reduction planning, coordination, briefings, and ...

$73K - $90K/yr

Senior Subject Matter Expert Electronic Warfare Location : Fort Bragg, NC Clearance Type: Top Secret Responsibilities: * Support SGM and Deputy TT as EW SME, developing tools and technology in ...

Senior Subject Matter Expert Breaching Operations (SPM&E) Location : Fort Bragg, NC Clearance Type: Top Secret Responsibilities: * Assist APM SPM&E in development and acquisition of kinetic and ...

PWS Title: Senior Subject Matter Expert Information Operations Location : Fort Bragg, NC Clearance Type: Top Secret Responsibilities: * Support SGM and Deputy Tech Targeting as IO/GVSA SME ...

Senior Subject Matter Expert Sensitive Activity Operations Location : Fort Bragg, NC Clearance Type: Top Secret Responsibilities: * Provide SME support for planning, coordination, and product ...

Cloud Subject Matter Expert Location: Arlington, VA Security Clearance:Secret Duties and Responsibilities The Cloud Subject Matter Expert (SME) supports this Transportation Security Administration ...

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Senior Subject Matter Expert information

See salary details

$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior subject matter expert jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior subject matter expert in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do senior subject matter experts get paid?

Senior Subject Matter Experts typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on industry, location, experience, and certifications. They often have specialized knowledge and may work in consulting, technology, or engineering environments with advanced skills in their field.

How does a senior subject matter expert typically collaborate with cross-functional teams?

As a Senior Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will regularly partner with cross-functional teams such as engineering, product management, and operations. Your deep expertise allows you to provide guidance, clarify technical concepts, and ensure that project objectives align with industry best practices. Effective communication and the ability to translate complex information for diverse audiences are critical, as SMEs often bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. This collaborative approach ensures project success and helps drive continuous improvement across the organization.

What is the difference between Senior Subject Matter Expert vs Subject Matter Expert?

AspectSenior Subject Matter ExpertSubject Matter Expert
CredentialsTypically requires advanced certifications and extensive experienceRequires relevant certifications and experience, but less extensive
Work EnvironmentLeads complex projects, mentors others, and provides strategic guidanceProvides specialized knowledge, supports project teams, and offers expertise
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large organizations and industries like IT, engineering, healthcareUsed across similar industries, often as a technical specialist role

The main difference between a Senior Subject Matter Expert and a Subject Matter Expert lies in experience, leadership responsibilities, and scope of influence. Senior SMEs typically have more advanced credentials, lead complex projects, and mentor others, whereas SMEs focus on providing specialized knowledge within their area. Both roles are vital for technical expertise but differ in seniority and strategic involvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior subject matter expert, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Subject Matter Expert, you need deep expertise in your specialized field, advanced analytical abilities, and a relevant degree or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with industry-specific software, data analysis tools, and sometimes relevant certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you guide teams and translate complex concepts for diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for delivering authoritative guidance, driving strategic initiatives, and ensuring high-quality project outcomes.

Is a senior subject matter expert a good career?

A senior subject matter expert (SME) is a highly specialized role that offers opportunities for advanced expertise, leadership, and higher compensation. It often requires deep knowledge in a specific field, strong communication skills, and relevant certifications, making it a valuable and stable career path for those with extensive experience. However, career satisfaction depends on individual interests and industry demand.
More about Senior Subject Matter Expert jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Subject Matter Expert jobs? Cities with the most Senior Subject Matter Expert job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Subject Matter Expert jobs? The most popular types of Subject Matter Expert jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Subject Matter Expert jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Subject Matter Expert jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Subject Matter Expert job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Senior Subject Matter Expert

SiloSmashers

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Senior Subject Matter Expert
Location: Arlington, VA (Hybrid)
Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance and DHS suitability, as required by federal contract.
Summary:
The Senior Subject Matter Expert (SME) will serve as a trusted advisor to DHS CISA, providing strategic guidance on IT modernization, cloud adoption, and cybersecurity initiatives. This role partners with federal leadership to shape enterprise solutions and ensure alignment with mission and security priorities.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide expert technical direction and validate solution designs for complex IT systems.
  • Advise executive stakeholders with risk-based recommendations to support decision-making.
  • Mentor and guide junior staff, facilitating knowledge transfer across teams.
  • Ensure solutions align with DHS enterprise architecture, Zero Trust strategy, and federal compliance requirements.

Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of specialized experience in IT, cybersecurity, or enterprise architecture.
  • Proven experience advising senior federal leadership on modernization and cybersecurity policy.
  • Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills with client-facing expertise.
  • Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or cloud architect certifications (AWS, Azure, etc.) strongly preferred.