Acquisition Program Manager - Senior/SME

Arenatechnologies; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking an Acquisition Program Manager - Senior/SME for the Space Systems Group in El Segundo, CA. The role focuses on strategic program governance, advisor to senior leadership, and enterprise-wide coordination across multiple portfolios.

Qualified candidates will have US citizenship with TS/SCI clearance and 10+ years in senior program management, with experience guiding complex defense and IT programs. Position requires on-site work in El Segundo.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field required.
• 10+ years of senior level program management experience preferred.
• Ability to advise senior executives and drive enterprise-level decisions.

Responsibilities

• Shaping program strategy and governance for large, high-value programs.
• Advising senior leadership and government customers on critical decisions.
• Overseeing enterprise integration and risk management across portfolios.
• Leading major risk, dependency, and decision-analysis activities.
• Coaching senior PMs and cross-functional leads.
• Representing the organization in high-level forums and audits.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Executive advisory

Communication

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Program management tools

Job description

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 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 Space Systems Group (SSG), part of SPA’s Space and Intelligence Division, provides timely and objective assessments and recommendations integrating technical, operational, programmatic, policy and business analysis. We focus on our key clients in the Space community including the US Space Force’s Space Systems Command (USSF/SSC), one of the three designated Field Commands under USSF. We work tirelessly to provide integrated solutions based on information and communications throughout the chain of command. We provide clear and consistent analysis and recommendations which are aligned to strategic and leadership goals while balancing the ability to execute on time and on budget within the technical communities. Come join an organization responsible for being a key enabler of Spacepower!

SPA has a near‑term need for an Acquisition Program Manager - Senior/SME.

Responsibilities

The Program Manager/Technical Program Analyst serves as a strategic advisor and technical expert on complex, high-value, multi‑disciplinary programs. Responsibilities include shaping program strategy, advising senior leadership, guiding major acquisition or technical decisions, overseeing enterprise‑level integration, and resolving the highest‑impact risks and issues. The SME provides authoritative expertise, establishes program governance structures, mentors senior PMs, and ensures alignment with organizational or mission priorities. This role often influences policy, long‑range planning, and enterprise standards.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading development of large‑scale program strategies, architectures, and governance models.
• Advising executives, government customers, and technical leadership on critical program decisions.
• Overseeing integration across multiple programs, portfolios, or enterprise functions.
• Anticipating and solving complex technical, acquisition, or organizational challenges.
• Guiding financial strategy, acquisition planning, contract structuring, and resource allocation.
• Leading major risk, dependency, and decision‑analysis activities across the enterprise.
• Ensuring program outcomes meet mission, operational, and technical objectives.
• Establishing and refining organizational processes, standards, and frameworks.
• Coaching senior PMs, project managers, and cross‑functional leads.
• Representing the organization in high‑level forums, audits, and governance boards.

Qualifications

About the Must Haves

• US Citizenship with TS/SCI clearance at time of application with ability to obtain and maintain SAP clearance
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of senior level program management experience
• Demonstrated mastery of managing large, complex, multi project programs or portfolios
• Proven ability to advise senior executives and drive enterprise level decisions
• Expert proficiency with program management tools, methodologies, and governance structures
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills
• Ability to report to designated work location in El Segundo, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

About the Desired

• DAWIA, PMP, PMI ACP, or advanced professional certifications
• Master’s or doctorate in management, systems engineering, business, or related field
• Extensive experience in defense, acquisition, engineering, or IT program environments
• Experience shaping policy, organizational standards, or enterprise architectures
• Demonstrated record of leading major transformation, modernization, or integration initiatives
• Experience in the DoW Space Control, MILSATCOM, GPS/PNT, and/or Command and Control Mission areas

Pay Range Information

At 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. California, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $180,000.00/Yr. - USD $260,000.00/Yr.