Senior Portfolio Technical Lead | Strategic DoD Advisory

Systems Planning and Analysis; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 158,000 - 198,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks a Portfolio Technical Lead to provide onsite support from Arlington, VA, advising the DARPA PM and senior government stakeholders on technical rigor, integration, and portfolio coherence.

Requirements include a PhD, 15+ years in biomedical R&D or DoD/S&T, and proven leadership across multi-program portfolios with strong communication skills. TS/SCI clearance is required.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in biomedical research, technical program management, and/or science and technology policy, including significant DoD/Government experience.
• Senior technical/advisory support experience to government program managers or senior leadership in a science & technology organization.
• Proven track record leading and integrating complex technical portfolios.
• Strong technical writing and briefing skills; ability to communicate complex concepts.
• Experience mentoring technical teams and improving processes.
• Ability to engage with senior government, interagency, and external stakeholders (FDA, DoD, DARPA, NIH, industry partners).
• Experience with Federal acquisition processes (OTA, FAR/DFARS, cooperative agreements).
• Active TS/SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Advise PM for technical rigor, integration, and portfolio coherence across programs.
• Evaluate risk, maturity, feasibility, and transition potential across the portfolio.
• Translate technical complexity into decision-ready options and recommendations.
• Surface risks early and coordinate with senior stakeholders for actions and PM judgment.

Skills

Technical leadership

Program management

Stakeholder engagement

Technical writing

Mentoring

Education

PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks a Portfolio Technical Lead to provide onsite support from Arlington, VA, advising the DARPA PM and senior government stakeholders on technical rigor, integration, and portfolio coherence.

Requirements include a PhD, 15+ years in biomedical R&D or DoD/S&T, and proven leadership across multi-program portfolios with strong communication skills. TS/SCI clearance is required.