Senior Deterrence Policy Lead

Systems Planning & Analysis; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Life and disability insurance

Paid time away

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Senior Deterrence Policy Analyst to lead the integration of national deterrence guidance into Air Force policy and planning. You will shape and interpret strategic documents for AF/A10 and create options papers, memos, and briefs for senior leaders.

The role requires interpreting complex guidance, coordinating with stakeholders, and aligning nuclear, CWMD, and deterrence contributions across programs. On-site work in Virginia is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in international relations, strategic studies, security studies, or a related discipline; master’s degree preferred
• 8+ years of experience in strategic policy analysis, deterrence planning, or closely related work in a headquarters, joint, or interagency environment
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and synthesize complex strategic guidance into clear recommendations for senior leaders
• Active TS/SCI clearance and the ability to maintain it throughout employment
• Direct experience supporting one or more strategic reviews (e.g., NPR, NDS development, JSCP, major PBRs)
• Familiarity with nuclear posture, NC3, CWMD, and conventional-nuclear integration issues and how they fit into broader deterrence strategy

Responsibilities

• The senior Policy Analyst reviews and analyzes national-level documents such as the NSS, NDS, NPR, Missile Defense Review, and related guidance, identifying implications for Air Force deterrence policy and force development.
• They develop options papers, decision memos, and briefs that support AF/A10’s positions in major strategic reviews and planning activities.
• They help articulate Air Force equities in joint and interagency strategic planning, aligning nuclear, CWMD, and broader deterrence contributions.
• They also coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure AF/A10 positions are coherent, timely, and fully staffed.

Skills

Strategic policy analysis

Deterrence planning

Interagency coordination

TS/SCI clearance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in international relations, strategic studies, security studies, or a related discipline

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Senior Deterrence Policy Analyst to lead the integration of national deterrence guidance into Air Force policy and planning. You will shape and interpret strategic documents for AF/A10 and create options papers, memos, and briefs for senior leaders.

The role requires interpreting complex guidance, coordinating with stakeholders, and aligning nuclear, CWMD, and deterrence contributions across programs. On-site work in Virginia is expected.