About the Role
Blue Sky Innovators is seeking a highly experienced Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) and Electronic Warfare (EW) Subject Matter Expert to support USD(R&E) leadership in advancing technologies that ensure U.S. electromagnetic spectrum superiority. This SETA role bridges cutting-edge research and development with operational requirements, supporting strategic decision-making for technologies that will define the future electromagnetic battlespace.
Key Responsibilities
- Work as part of a team of subject matter experts providing technical and operational analysis on EMSO and EW technologies, systems, and capabilities
- Conduct assessments of emerging electromagnetic spectrum technologies for military applications, transition potential, and operational impact
- Support team efforts in strategic planning and roadmap development for EMSO/EW research and development investments
- Collaborate with DoD research performers, service laboratories, and industry partners to evaluate technical approaches and program progress
- Analyze complex technical information and contribute to team products that inform senior decision-makers and strategic planning processes
- Participate in coordination efforts with Joint Staff, Combatant Commands, and Service representatives to support alignment of R&D efforts with operational electromagnetic spectrum requirements
- Contribute to preparation of strategic documents, briefings, and assessments related to electromagnetic spectrum operations and electronic warfare
- Support technical reviews, program evaluations, and milestone assessments for EMSO/EW research programs
- Assist team participation in interagency forums and DoD working groups focused on electromagnetic spectrum operations
- Conduct analysis of adversary electromagnetic capabilities and assess implications for U.S. technology development priorities
- Support team inputs to critical DoD processes including PPBE, JROC, and JCIDS related to electromagnetic spectrum technologies
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred. Extensive military operational experience in EMSO/EW may offset the requirement for an advanced technical degree
- Experience: Minimum 12 years of professional experience in electromagnetic spectrum operations, electronic warfare, or related fields, which may include:
- Military operational experience employing EMSO/EW capabilities
- Technical research and development in electromagnetic spectrum technologies
- Program management or technical leadership in defense electromagnetic systems
- Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of electromagnetic spectrum operations doctrine, electronic warfare principles, and associated technologies including:
- RF/microwave systems and signal processing
- Electronic attack, electronic protection, and electronic support measures
- Spectrum management and electromagnetic environmental effects
- Radar, communications, and sensor systems
- DoD Knowledge: Strong familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, research and development lifecycles, and technology transition pathways
- Communication: Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills with ability to brief senior executives
- Security: Active TS/SCI clearance required
- Availability: Ability to work full-time in SCIF environment in the National Capital Region
Preferred Experience
- Military service with operational EMSO/EW experience, particularly in leadership or technical specialization roles
- Prior experience supporting DARPA, military service research laboratories, or USD(R&E) organizations
- Experience with DoD science and technology enterprise programs and processes
- Operational experience with Joint electromagnetic spectrum operations doctrine and concepts
- Knowledge of emerging technologies such as cognitive EW, AI/ML applications to spectrum operations, and advanced antenna technologies
- Experience with test and evaluation of electromagnetic spectrum systems in operationally relevant environments
- Background supporting senior DoD leadership in strategic planning or technical assessment roles
- Advanced technical education in electrical engineering, physics, computer science, or related disciplines