Emerging Technology Technical Advisor to the CTO

OverviewSystems 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. Objective. Responsive. Trusted.The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.The Strategic Technology Analysis Group (STAG), part of SPA’s Space and Intelligence Division, offers sophisticated capabilities (people, process & tools) to resolve unique problems in space, cyber, and special operations in support to military services, Secretary of Defense offices (OSD) and theater warfighters. Our portfolio includes the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration (SAF/SQ), Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC), Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), National Space Defense Center (NSDC), Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO), US Space Command (USSPACECOM) and US Space Force (USSF). Come be a part of a high-speed low-drag organization providing unique and tailored solutions for our National Defense!SPA has an immediate need for a CTO Technology Advisor, the primary SETA advisor to the Chief Technology Officer for a DoD Rapid Prototyping Office.ResponsibilitiesSeeking a highly motivated and experienced Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) contractor to provide technical advisory support to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of a fast-paced DoW Research & Development (R&D) office. Responsible for identifying, assessing, and transitioning emerging technologies to address critical warfighter needs. Requires a unique blend of technical expertise, knowledge of defense acquisition, and a passion for rapidly delivering new capabilities to the field. Creative and strategic thinker, adept at navigating the complexities of the DoW and commercial technology sectors to create new strategic advantages.Technology Scouting and Assessment (Primary focus area): Advise the CTO on the identification and evaluation of disruptive technologies from a wide range of sources, including commercial industry, academia, and government laboratories.Conduct technical due diligence on potential technology investments, assessing feasibility, maturity, and potential for military application.Maintain a broad awareness of the technology landscape, including emerging trends in AI/ML, autonomy, cyber, space, and other areas relevant to the mission.Manage, review, compile, and disseminate responses to Broad Agency Announcement (BAAs) and Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) office wide solicitations. Ensure all information is captured and stored.Acquisition and Program Management Support:Provide expert guidance to the CTO on the use of flexible and rapid acquisition authorities, including Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs), Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs), and Commercial Solutions Offerings (CSOs).Inform Office working groups on existing technology companies (for potential tech insertion) which are aligned to working group mission areas and potential new concepts.Prototyping and Technology Transition:Support the CTO in designing and executing rapid prototyping, demonstration, and experimentation campaigns to evaluate the military utility of new technologies.Identify and cultivate relationships with potential transition partners, including program offices of record, operational units, and other government agencies.Facilitate the integration of emerging technologies into existing SCO projects and operational workflows.Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination:Serve as a key liaison between the CTO, SCO program managers, and a diverse community of stakeholders, including technology vendors, Service R&D centers, the intelligence community, and combatant commands.Represent the CTO in technical discussions, strategic planning sessions, and program reviews.Foster collaboration and alignment across the DoD R&D enterprise to accelerate the adoption of new capabilities.QualificationsRequired QualificationsActive TS/SCI security clearanceBachelor's degree in a technical field such as Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related discipline3-5 years of experience supporting technology development for major DoW R&D or acquisition programs wth a focus on intelligence and space programs. Familiarity with defense acquisition processes and innovative acquisition methods (e.g., BAAs, SBIRs, OTAs) to acquire and field new technologiesStrong technical background with a deep understanding of at least one or more emerging technology areas (e.g., AI/ML, autonomy, cyber, directed energy, etc.)Proven ability to operationalize emerging technology and rapidly transition it into the hands of the warfighterExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in briefing senior government and military officialsDesired QualificationsDemonstrated operational understanding of technology and how to apply it across the Department of WarExperience working with the commercial technology sector, including startups, venture capital firms, and non-traditional defense contractorsHands-on experience with rapid prototyping, experimentation, and operational test and evaluationProven ability to work effectively in a dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment with minimal supervisionPay Range InformationAt 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. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $130,000.00/Yr. - USD $225,000.00/Yr.Job SummaryID: 2026-22738Category: Engineering & Technical ServicesSecurity Clearance Requirement: Top Secret/ SCIType: Regular Full-TimeLevel: Senior