Digital Engineer

Systems Planning & Analysis; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Digital Engineer to support DHS CBP in Washington, DC. The role focuses on enterprise engineering, model‑based systems engineering, and architecture development across lifecycle stages.

You will collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment with mission needs and DoDAF standards. Ideal candidates bring 3+ years in systems engineering, MBSE with Innoslate/Cameo, and scripting skills (Python/R/MATLAB).

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability and/or CBP Background Investigation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in systems engineering, including full systems lifecycle support.
• Experience supporting government acquisition programs; familiarity with DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) framework.
• Exposure in developing architecture views aligned with DoDAF or other Federal architecture frameworks.
• Hands‑on experience with MBSE (Innoslate, Cameo) and M&S tools (such as Spectrum‑E, Arena, or AFSIM).
• Working knowledge of scripting or analytical languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to present technical findings to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Able to work onsite based on client needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide models‑based engineering support to CBP, covering architecture and requirements development through modeling, testing, and rollout.
• Align new and existing capabilities with mission needs via enterprise‑level engineering and systems analysis.
• Develop and maintain enterprise architecture products (operational, system, capability views) per DoDAF or similar.
• Support CBP acquisition programs and assess alignment with strategic priorities.
• Identify gaps across programs and propose integration strategies.
• Apply MBSE and digital engineering tools to create system models and simulations.
• Participate in CBP‑wide groups to promote consistent digital engineering practices.
• Use architectural data to run MBSE models and assess operational concepts and risks.
• Evaluate emerging technologies through pilots and demonstrations.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Innoslate

Cameo

Spectrum-E

Arena

AFSIM

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 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 a Digital Engineer to support DHS Customs and Border Protection (CBP) customers located in Washington, DC. This position allows for a hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities

• The Digital Engineer will provide models‑based engineering support to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This position will contribute to the full lifecycle development of complex CBP systems—from architecture and requirements development through modeling and simulation (M&S), testing and assessment, and operational rollout.
• The role focuses on aligning new and existing capabilities with mission needs through enterprise‑level engineering and systems analysis.
• Develop and maintain enterprise architecture products, including operational, system, and capability views in accordance with frameworks such as DoDAF.
• Support analysis of CBP acquisition programs and initiatives to assess alignment with strategic capability priorities.
• Assist in identifying gaps and overlaps across programs and recommend integration strategies.
• Apply MBSE practices and digital engineering tools (e.g., Innoslate, Cameo or similar solution) to create system models and simulations that inform systems development.
• Participate in CBP‑wide working groups to drive the adoption of consistent digital engineering practices across the enterprise.
• Leverage architectural data to develop and run M&S to assess new operational concepts, evaluate proposed system enhancements, and identify potential risks.
• Support evaluation of emerging technologies through pilot efforts and operational demonstrations.
• Work with CBP stakeholders to capture operational needs, define technical requirements, and assess feasibility and suitability.
• Conduct market research, draft technical specifications, and contribute to test planning and results analysis.

Qualifications

Required

• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability and/or CBP Background Investigation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in systems engineering, including full systems lifecycle support.
• Experience supporting government acquisition programs; familiarity with DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) framework.
• Exposure in developing architecture views aligned with DoDAF or other Federal architecture frameworks.
• Hands‑on experience with MBSE (Innoslate, Cameo) and M&S tools (such as Spectrum‑E, Arena, or AFSIM).
• Working knowledge of scripting or analytical languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to present technical findings to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Able to work onsite based on client needs.

Desired

• Master’s degree in a technical or engineering discipline.
• Experience supporting government acquisition programs; familiarity with DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) framework.
• Proficiency in developing architecture views aligned with DoDAF or other Federal architecture frameworks.
• Experience supporting DHS, CBP, or other federal law enforcement or homeland security missions.
• Knowledge of enterprise and operational architectures in border security or similar domains.
• Familiarity with systems test and evaluation, operational assessments, and technology pilots.
• Experience in leading or participating in working groups or cross‑agency technical initiatives.

Compensation & Benefits

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. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. The mandated mandelmand Mandator Mandation Mandem Fee and required Mandate Manderror opportunities are reviewed in order.

Pay Range Information: Washington, DC – USD 90,000.00 / Yr. – USD 120,000.00 / Yr.