Sr. Digital Engineer

Arenatechnologies; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Sr. Digital Engineer to support DHS CBP in Washington, DC with a hybrid work schedule.

You will contribute to the full lifecycle of complex CBP systems—from architecture and requirements through modeling, simulation, testing, and deployment. The role emphasizes enterprise architecture, MBSE (Innoslate/Cameo), and DoDAF-aligned views, collaborating with government stakeholders to assess feasibility, risks, and opportunity areas.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related).
• 10+ years of systems engineering experience across full lifecycle.
• Experience supporting government acquisition programs and DHS SELC framework familiarity.
• Proficiency in architecture views aligned with DoDAF or equivalent frameworks.
• Hands-on MBSE experience with Innoslate and Cameo; modeling & simulation tools such as Spectrum-E, Arena, or AFSIM.
• Proficiency in scripting/analysis languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to present findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willing to work onsite as required by the client.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior-level engineering support to CBP across architecture, requirements, modeling & simulation, testing, and rollout.
• Develop and maintain enterprise architecture products (operational, system, capability views) per DoDAF or similar frameworks.
• Analyze CBP acquisition programs to assess alignment with strategic priorities and capabilities.
• Identify gaps across programs and recommend integration strategies.
• Apply MBSE practices to create system models and simulations informing development.

Skills

Systems engineering

MBSE

DoDAF architecture

Modeling & simulation

Python/R/MATLAB

Government acquisition programs

Communication skills

Onsite work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Computer Science or related field

Tools

Innoslate/Cameo MBSE tools

Spectrum-E / Arena / AFSIM

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 Sr. Digital Engineer to support DHS Customs and Border Protection (CBP) customers located in Washington, DC. This position allows for a hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities

The Sr. Digital Engineer will provide senior-level engineering support to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This position will contribute to the full lifecycle development of complex CBP systems—from architecture and requirements development through modeling and simulation (M&S), testing and assessment, and operational rollout. The role focuses on aligning new and existing capabilities with mission needs through enterprise-level engineering and systems analysis.

Develop and maintain enterprise architecture products, including operational, system, and capability views in accordance with frameworks such as DoDAF.

Support analysis of CBP acquisition programs and initiatives to assess alignment with strategic capability priorities.

Assist in identifying gaps and overlaps across programs and recommend integration strategies.

Apply MBSE practices and digital engineering tools (e.g., Innoslate, Cameo or similar solution) to create system models and simulations that inform systems development.

Participate in CBP-wide working groups to drive the adoption of consistent digital engineering practices across the enterprise.

Leverage architectural data to develop and run M&S to assess new operational concepts, evaluate proposed system enhancements, and identify potential risks.

Support evaluation of emerging technologies through pilot efforts and operational demonstrations.

Work with CBP stakeholders to capture operational needs, define technical requirements, and assess feasibility and suitability.

Conduct market research, draft technical specifications, and contribute to test planning and results analysis.

Qualifications

Required:

• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability and/or CBP Background Investigation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in systems engineering, including full systems lifecycle support.
• Experience supporting government acquisition programs; familiarity with DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) framework.
• Proficiency in developing architecture views aligned with DoDAF or other Federal architecture frameworks.
• Hands‑on experience with MBSE (Innoslate, Cameo) and M&S tools (such as Spectrum-E, Arena, or AFSIM).
• Working knowledge of scripting or analytical languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to present technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• Able to work onsite based on client needs.

Desired:

• Master’s degree in a technical or engineering discipline.
• Experience leading a team.
• Experience supporting DHS, CBP, or other Federal law enforcement or homeland security missions.
• Knowledge of enterprise and operational architectures in border security or similar domains.
• Familiarity with systems test and evaluation, operational assessments, and technology pilots.
• Experience in leading or participating in working groups or cross-agency technical initiatives.

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 $125,000.00/Yr. - USD $165,000.00/Yr.