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Systems Planning and Analysis • Alexandria, Virginia, United States
Salary: USD 0 per year
Role & seniority: Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer (mid-level) for DHS CBP program support, hybrid arrangement in Northern Virginia.
Test design and strategy; TEMPs and test planning processes
DHS directives and CBP ORD/MD 102-01 alignment
Test data collection, analysis, and reporting
Documentation management (OTRs, plans, recommendations)
Stakeholder coordination with CBP, DHS S&T, and external partners
Modeling/simulation, digital engineering, and data analytics tools (desired)
Design and develop operational test plans and strategies for homeland defense technologies; ensure alignment with DHS policies
Coordinate and execute Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), test concepts, and detailed test plans; support mission objectives
Collect, analyze, and report test data on system performance, reliability, and suitability; prepare OT Reports and briefings for leadership
U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain DHS Suitability/CBP background
Bachelor’s degree in Systems/Electrical/Computer Science or related field
3+ years in test design, data analysis, and statistical methods for complex systems
Strong analytical ability and clear written/verbal communication
Ability to work fully onsite as required
Active CBP background investigation or Top Secret clearance
Knowledge of DHS MD 102-01, DHS 026-06, and DHS SELC
Hands-on
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 an Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer to provide hybrid support out of the Northern Virginia Area.
Responsibilities
The Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Engineer will support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission and will be responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing tests of homeland defense technology systems to ensure operational effectiveness, reliability, and suitability throughout their lifecycle. This role focuses on evaluating systems designed to secure U.S. borders and facilitate the lawful flow of commerce, ensuring compliance with DHS policies and operational requirements in realistic environments.
Test Planning and Strategy Development: Design and develop operational test plans for homeland defense technologies, such as border surveillance systems, non-intrusive inspection equipment, and trade facilitation systems. Ensure adherence to DHS Acquisition Management Directive (MD 102-01) and CBP’s Operational Requirements Document (ORD) processes.
Test and Evaluation Coordination: Develop and coordinate Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), test concepts, and detailed test plans aligned with DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation) and CBP mission needs. Collaborate with CBP’s Office of Acquisition and operational stakeholders to align testing with mission objectives.
System Performance Evaluation: Collect and analyze test data to assess the performance, reliability, and suitability of systems like integrated fixed towers, remote video surveillance systems, and cargo scanning technologies in operational border environments.
Documentation and Reporting: Maintain critical documentation, including test plans, reports, and recommendations for system improvements. Support preparation for Operational Test Reports (OTRs) and briefings for CBP leadership and DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to support acquisition decisions.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with CBP officers, engineers, program managers, and DHS components to ensure effective testing. Engage with external partners, such as other DHS components or interagency partners, to align testing with broader homeland security objectives.
Test Event Support: Support test events, including integrated test planning meetings, Deficiency Review Boards, Safety Review Boards, and Operational Readiness Reviews. Participate in critical design reviews and other meetings to support OT&E execution for border security and trade systems.
Compliance and Risk Management: Support testing that adheres to DHS policies, including the DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) and the DHS Risk Management Framework. Address risks related to border security operations and trade facilitation
Qualifications
U. S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability/CBP Background Investigation.