Sr. Digital Engineer

Systems Planning & Analysis; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Senior Digital Engineer to support DHS CBP in Washington, DC, with a hybrid work schedule. You will lead architecture development, modeling, testing, and deployment across CBP programs, aligning capabilities with mission needs through enterprise‑level engineering.

The role requires DoDAF‑aligned architecture work and MBSE proficiency. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years in systems engineering, strong communication, and hands‑on MBSE tools

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in systems engineering and full lifecycle support.
• Experience with DHS CBP or similar government acquisition programs preferred.
• Proficiency in DoDAF or other federal architecture frameworks.
• Hands-on MBSE (Innoslate, Cameo) and M&S tools (Spectrum-E, Arena, AFSIM).
• Scripting/analytical languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to present technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• On-site work requirement based on client needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior-level engineering support to CBP across architecture, modeling, testing, and rollout activities.
• Develop and maintain enterprise architecture products, including DoDAF views.
• Analyze CBP acquisition programs for alignment with strategic priorities and identify gaps.
• Apply MBSE and digital engineering tools to create system models and simulations.
• Participate in CBP-wide working groups to promote consistent digital engineering practices.
• Run MBSE/M&S to evaluate new concepts and risks.
• Evaluate emerging technologies through pilots and demonstrations.
• Capture operational needs and define technical requirements with CBP stakeholders.
• Draft technical specifications and contribute to test planning and results.

Skills

MBSE practices

DoDAF knowledge

Python/R/MATLAB

Systems engineering lifecycle

Technical presentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering/ Electrical Engineering/ Computer Science

Master’s degree (desired)

Tools

Innoslate

Cameo

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. We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets.

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

• Provide senior‑level engineering support to CBP, contributing 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, focusing 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, identify gaps and overlaps across programs, and recommend integration strategies.
• Apply MBSE practices and digital engineering tools (e.g., Innoslate, Cameo, or similar solutions) 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 on‑site 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.

Compensation and Benefits

At SPA, we try 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. 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.