Modeling & Simulation Analyst

Systems Planning & Analysis, Inc.; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks a Modeling & Simulation Analyst to develop, run, and analyze models of homeland defense systems in the DC/Northern Virginia area.

You will focus on communications, sensor, and surveillance systems to support test and evaluation and acquisition decisions. The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in Systems or Electrical Engineering, 3+ years in modeling/simulation, and hands-on experience with RF analysis and related tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or Electrical Engineering.
• 3+ years of modeling and simulation, RF analysis, or related systems engineering.
• Hands-on experience modeling hardware/software systems such as border surveillance or RF networks.
• Familiarity with DHS and CBP environments.
• Ability to obtain a CBP Background Investigation.
• Understanding of RF communications and antenna concepts.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, C/C++, and Python.
• Experience with RF propagation tools and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Develop, execute, and analyze models and simulations of homeland defense systems to inform test and evaluation.
• Align modeling activities with DHS directives and CBP mission needs.
• Perform link budget, path-loss, and propagation analyses for border terrain and interference.
• Characterize antenna properties and integrate into models for testing and evaluation.
• Assess operational effectiveness and support acquisition and T&E decisions with results.
• Collaborate with CBP officers, T&E engineers, and DHS partners to reflect operational use.

Skills

Modeling & simulation

RF analysis

Systems engineering

Analytical skills

Border security domain familiarity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or Electrical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

C/C++

Python

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 Modeling & Simulation Analyst to provide onsite/hybrid support in the DC/Northern Virginia Area.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a Modeling & Simulation Analyst to join our Systems Engineering Team. This position is responsible for developing, executing, and analyzing models and simulations of homeland defense technology systems to inform test and evaluation, design trades, and acquisition decisions. This role focuses on communications, sensor, and surveillance systems used to secure U.S. borders and facilitate the lawful flow of commerce, ensuring models are technically defensible and aligned with DHS policies and operational requirements.

Develop, adapt, and execute models and simulations of CBP systems and operational environments, including RF communications links, antenna performance, sensor coverage, and system-of-systems interactions. Align M&S activities with DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation) and CBP mission needs.

Perform link budget, path-loss, and propagation analyses to assess communications performance across border terrain, weather, and interference conditions. Characterize antenna properties (gain, pattern, polarization, and siting) and incorporate those characteristics into models supporting test planning and system evaluation.

Use M&S to assess operational effectiveness, reliability, and suitability of systems such as integrated fixed towers, remote video surveillance systems, and tactical or fixed communications networks. Compare modeled predictions with field test data and refine models accordingly.

Maintain critical documentation, including model descriptions, assumptions, analysis plans, results, and recommendations for system or test-design improvements. Prepare analysis reports and briefings for CBP leadership to support acquisition and T&E decisions.

Work with CBP officers, T&E engineers, systems engineers, program managers, and DHS components to ensure models reflect operational use and test objectives. Engage other DHS components or interagency partners as needed to align modeling with broader homeland security objectives.

Stay abreast of emerging systems engineering trends, tools, and methodologies relevant to DHS missions. Contribute to policy updates, training programs, and process enhancements to elevate acquisition maturity.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or Electrical Engineering.
• 3+ years of proven experience in modeling and simulation, RF analysis, or related systems engineering supporting technology evaluation.
• Hands-on experience modeling or analyzing hardware/software technology systems, such as border surveillance (e.g., EO/IR, UAVs, radars, UGS), tactical or fixed RF communications, or related sensors and network systems.
• Familiarity with DHS and CBP operational environments, including border security and commerce facilitation missions.
• Ability to obtain a CBP Background Investigation.

Desired:

• Understanding of RF communications, including link budgets and propagation analysis, sufficient to build and interpret communications performance models.
• Understanding of antenna properties and design (gain, radiation pattern, polarization, impedance, and siting effects) and the ability to apply those characteristics in M&S.
• Proficiency in coding languages used for analysis and model development, including MATLAB, C/C++, and Python.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating system performance from modeled and measured data and providing actionable recommendations.
• Experience with RF propagation and communications modeling tools (e.g., STK/AGI, Wireless InSite, MATLAB Antenna/Phased Array Toolbox, or equivalent) and familiarity with data analytics tools (e.g., Excel, Python, Power BI, R) for processing large datasets from border security operations or test events.

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. Washington, DC, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $95,000.00/Yr. - USD $115,000.00/Yr.