Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

Systems Planning & Analysis

Alexandria (VA)

On-site

USD 80,000 - 110,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

A national security technology firm is seeking an Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer in Alexandria, Virginia. The role involves planning and assessing the effectiveness of homeland defense technology systems. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering and 3+ years of relevant experience. Strong analytical skills and U.S. citizenship are prerequisites for this position.

Qualifications

U.S. Citizen capable of obtaining DHS Suitability.
3+ years of relevant experience in evaluating systems.

Responsibilities

Plan and evaluate homeland defense technology systems.
Collect and analyze test data for operational effectiveness.
Maintain comprehensive test documentation.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Excellent written and verbal communication

Test design and data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering

Tools

Modeling and simulation tools

Data analytics tools

Job description

Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

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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. 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.

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.

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.
Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
3+ years of relevant experience in test design, data analysis, and statistical methods for evaluating complex systems.
Strong analytical skills for evaluating system performance and excellent written and verbal communication skills to provide actionable recommendations.
Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.

Desired

Active CBP Background Investigation or an Active Top Secret clearance.
In-depth understanding of DHS policies, including MD 102-01 (Acquisition Management), DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation), and the DHS SELC framework.
Hands-on experience with homeland defense technology systems, such as border surveillance, non-intrusive inspection technologies, or trade compliance systems.
Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, digital engineering, or data management platforms to support testing.
Familiarity with data analytics tools for processing large datasets from border security operations or trade compliance systems.

Seniority level