Scientist Engineer II

ECS; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Everforth ECS is seeking a Scientist Engineer II to provide hands-on technical analysis for DARPA MXO programs in our Arlington, Virginia office. You will work with program managers and researchers to interpret data, assess risks, and identify actions to move ideas toward credible demonstrations and transitions.

You will join a multi-disciplinary team supporting program development from concept through execution, testing, and closeout, with opportunities to influence technical decisions and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• 7+ years of defense-related R&D experience.
• U.S. citizenship required for security-clearance eligibility.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to plan and coordinate technical work.

Responsibilities

• Review data, plans, and test results against milestones.
• Support program reviews, site visits, and demonstrations.
• Identify risks and provide concise program recommendations.
• Research emerging technologies for new concepts.
• Advise program managers on planning, cost, schedule, and risk.

Skills

7+ years exp

Citizenship required

Analytical skills

Decision making

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree

Job description

Job Description

Everforth ECS is seeking a Scientist Engineer II to work in our Arlington, Virginia office.

Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $150,000

Position Overview

Everforth ECS is seeking a Scientist Engineer II to provide hands‑on technical analysis for DARPA MXO programs. You will work with program managers and research performers to understand what the data shows, where technical risk is accumulating, and what actions can move an ambitious idea toward a credible demonstration or transition opportunity.

You will join an integrated scientific, engineering, and program support team that works alongside DARPA program managers from early concept development through program execution, testing, transition, and closeout.

About DARPA MXO

DARPA's Multi X Office applies the physical sciences across scales and disciplines to create mission-relevant capabilities. Its work extends from materials at the atomic, molecular, and cellular scales to components, tools, processes, systems, and architectures that can reshape future military operations and strengthen the U.S. technology base.

• Materials and components beyond traditional CMOS foundations, with an emphasis on resilient, secure, and attack‑resistant systems


• New tools, processes, manufacturing approaches, and domestic supply chains for critical technologies


• New modalities for sensing, orienting, computing, communicating, and producing mission effects


• Technical domains that include effects, energy, quantum science, organics and materials, new compute, robotics, and photonics

Depending on program assignment, your work may involve these areas or other emerging MXO priorities. Learn more about DARPA MXO

What You Will Do

• Review technical plans, experimental results, models, designs, and test data against program milestones and success criteria.


• Support program reviews, site visits, demonstrations, independent verification and validation, and test-readiness activities.


• Identify technical strengths, weaknesses, dependencies, and risks; develop concise recommendations for program managers.


• Research emerging technologies and contribute to new program concepts, technical briefings, and evaluation strategies.


• Advise DARPA program managers on program planning, technical execution, cost, schedule, risk, and transition considerations throughout the R&D lifecycle.


• Assess performer progress through technical reviews, site visits, laboratory results, tests, demonstrations, and other program events; identify concerns early and recommend practical risk-reduction actions.


• Coordinate with performers, Government partners, test organizations, transition stakeholders, and other technical experts to keep complex efforts moving toward measurable program objectives.


• Develop clear technical and programmatic products for DARPA leadership and external stakeholders, including review briefings, decision materials, trip reports, technical assessments, and program documentation.


• Support the development of new program concepts by researching emerging science and technology, evaluating military relevance and feasibility, and contributing to trade studies, sensitivity analyses, and new‑start materials.


• Provide independent, objective advice while protecting sensitive information and complying with all security, organizational conflict-of-interest, and Government requirements.


• Travel may include locations within and outside the continental United States and occasional international travel in support of program reviews, tests, demonstrations, or partner engagement.

Required Skills

• Master's degree


• 7 or more years of relevant experience


• U.S. citizenship required for security‑clearance eligibility


• Progressively responsible experience planning and developing defense‑related R&D projects involving unique or controversial technical problems.


• Demonstrated skill conceiving, planning, and conducting research of considerable scope and complexity using novel approaches and sophisticated techniques.


• Ability to make independent decisions on R&D engineering questions, resolve important issues, and plan and coordinate technical work.


• Experience applying advanced techniques, theories, and practices in a technical area relevant to DARPA.


• Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.

Desired Skills

• Three or more years of experience supporting one or more DARPA programs.


• Published articles, patents, prototypes, or other recognized contributions in the candidate's field.


• Experience supporting performer reviews, laboratory or field testing, or technology transition.

ECS Federal LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis any characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local jurisdiction law.

Everforth ECS is the federal segment of Everforth, a $4B global organization with over 10,000 employees. Our nearly 3,500 professionals deliver advanced technology solutions in data and AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise transformation, serving defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies.

Our work powers mission‑critical outcomes, strengthens technology partnerships, and creates meaningful opportunities for our people. We are defined by a commitment to excellence in delivery, a culture of innovation, and an environment where talent can thrive and grow.

We Value

• Attracting and developing top talent and high‑performing teams


• Fostering a culture that is engaging, accountable, and mission-driven

Meet the challenge. Make a difference with Everforth ECS!