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Subject Matter Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Subject Matter Expert

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$120 - $135/hr

Title: Subject Matter Expert Subject Matter Expert KBR, in support of the Volpe Center's Transportation Technology and Engineering Mission Solutions (TTEMS) program, is seeking a Subject Matter ...

Astrion

Subject Matter Expert 1

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Overview Subject Matter Expert 1 Location : NASA Michoud Assembly Facility Job Status : Full-Time Travel: Limited, as needed Must be a US citizen Join the NASA CPSS II team as a Subject Matter Expert ...

gTANGIBLE

Cloud Subject Matter Expert

Arlington, VA

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

BVG & Company

Subject Matter Expert I

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

The Subject Matter Expert I (SME I) full-time position supports the headquarters staff for a U.S. Federal agency and its stakeholders. In support of the agency's mission, the SME I is a tactical ...

Creative G C

Subject Matter Expert II

Washington, DC · On-site

Subject Matter Expert II [Domain: (Analytical, organic or inorganic chemistry experience with extensive knowledge of cosmetics manufacturing industry)] Location: DMV (On-site in metro-based area ...

Scires

CAC2S Subject Matter Expert

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Description We are seeking a motivated Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) Subject Matter Expert to join our team supporting the United States Marine Corps. In this role, you will ...

BigBear.ai

Army SME (Subject Matter Expert)

Mclean, VA · On-site

Residency All applicants must currently reside in the United States Overview BigBear.ai is seeking an Army Subject Matter Expert (SME) to work in the Pentagon with our current team in support of the ...

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Subject Matter Expert information

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$30.5K

$102.1K

$173.5K

How much do subject matter expert jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for subject matter expert in the United States is $102,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subject matter expert?

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are professionals with deep knowledge and expertise in a specific field or topic. They provide guidance, advice, and validation to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information, processes, or products within their area of specialization. SMEs are often consulted during projects, training, product development, or quality assurance to offer expert insights and help organizations achieve their goals. Their input is crucial for ensuring that technical or specialized content is correct and up-to-date.

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

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) often work closely with project managers, instructional designers, technical teams, and stakeholders to ensure the accuracy and relevance of content or processes. They are responsible for translating complex information into practical guidance, reviewing deliverables for quality, and providing clarifications as needed. Successful SMEs proactively communicate and build relationships across departments, which helps streamline workflows and resolve issues quickly. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring that projects meet both technical standards and business objectives.

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

To thrive as a Subject Matter Expert, you need deep expertise in your specialized field, often demonstrated by advanced degrees, certifications, or significant industry experience. Familiarity with relevant technical tools, data analysis platforms, or industry-specific software is often required to support knowledge sharing and project work. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills distinguish top SMEs, enabling them to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences. These competencies ensure accurate guidance, effective teamwork, and the successful transfer of knowledge within organizations.

What is the difference between Subject Matter Expert vs Technical Specialist?

AspectSubject Matter ExpertTechnical Specialist
CredentialsRelevant certifications, industry experienceTechnical certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentAdvisory roles, project teams, consultingHands-on technical tasks, support roles
Industry UsageConsulting firms, corporate departmentsIT, engineering, technical support
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding expertise scope, consulting rolesTechnical skills, support functions

The main difference between a Subject Matter Expert and a Technical Specialist lies in their focus. A Subject Matter Expert provides strategic advice and deep knowledge in a specific field, often guiding projects and decision-making. A Technical Specialist, on the other hand, focuses on technical execution and support, applying specialized skills to solve technical problems. Both roles are vital in their respective contexts, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a subject matter expert?

To become a subject matter expert, you typically gain extensive knowledge and experience in a specific field through education, training, and practical work. Developing specialized skills, earning relevant certifications, and staying current with industry trends are also important steps in establishing expertise.

Is it hard to become a subject matter expert?

Becoming a subject matter expert (SME) typically requires extensive experience, deep knowledge of a specific field, and continuous learning. It often involves gaining relevant certifications, practical application of skills, and staying updated with industry developments, which can take several years depending on the complexity of the subject.
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Subject Matter Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subject Matter Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,075 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Subject Matter Expert

KBR

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$120 - $135/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 7 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Subject Matter Expert

Subject Matter Expert

KBR, in support of the Volpe Center's Transportation Technology and Engineering Mission Solutions (TTEMS) program, is seeking a Subject Matter Expert.

The Volpe Center supports the Department of Transportation modes, other agencies in the federal government, and non-federal projects related to research and innovation in transportation. The Volpe Center serves as a multidisciplinary center of expertise for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and other federal agencies. The Volpe Center works to anticipate emerging transportation issues and provides technical, operational, and institutional solutions to complex global challenges. It focuses on key priorities such as safety, infrastructure, innovation, and efficiency.

KBR's Subject Matter Expert (SME) will support the development of enroute supersonic aircraft noise Standards and Recommended Practices (SARP). This task includes leading the Volpe and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) delegation to the Supersonic Task Group (SSTG) to drive SARP development in supersonic air travel.

Candidate must be able to obtain Public Trust Clearance. This position requires an individual to have resided in the United States for 3 out of the last 5 years.

Essential Job functions:

  • Leading the ICAO CAEP Supersonic Task Group (SSTG) to drive SARP development, ensuring US interests are protected during technical discussions.
  • Leading SSTG includes the organization and facilitation of technical subgroup and ad-hoc group meetings. The SME will also provide technical planning, analysis, and advice on the milestones and deliverables of SSTG.
  • The SME will travel, if necessary, to attend WG1 meetings in-person and produce Information Papers and/or Working Papers to accomplish the milestones and deliverables

Basic Qualifications

  • This position requires United States residency for three of the last five years.
  • Must be able to be cleared for a position of Public Trust through the Department of Transportation.
  • Demonstrated technical competence and experience in supersonic aircraft-related programs and analyses.
  • Understanding of customer mission and strategic goals.
  • Good communicator and adept at presenting technical analysis reports
  • Strong interpersonal skills to interact with stakeholders: sponsors, customers, as well as project technical staff.

Basic Compensation:
$120.00 - $135.00 hourly

This pay range applies to Cambridge, MA location only.


The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience, and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR Benefits:


KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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