Subject Matter Expert II

ECS; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Everforth ECS in Arlington, VA, seeks a Subject Matter Expert II to advise DARPA MXO program managers on AI/ML or RF technologies. The role involves applying deep technical experience to research spanning hardware, algorithms, sensing, and mission effects.

You will join a cross-disciplinary team from concept through execution, testing, and transition, collaborating with DARPA program managers, partners, and stakeholders. Travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree and 15+ years of relevant experience.
• US citizenship required for security-clearance eligibility.
• Expert credentials in AI/ML, RF, or related field.
• Ability to advise senior Government personnel on complex scientific matters.

Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative analysis of AI/ML or RF research with evidence.
• Assess progress, identify uncertainties, and recommend risk reduction paths.
• Support full R&D lifecycle from concept to closeout.
• Communicate complex findings to program managers and stakeholders.
• Advise on planning, execution, cost, schedule, risk, and transition.
• Coordinate with partners and government stakeholders to move programs forward.
• Develop technical and programmatic products for leadership and external stakeholders.
• Research emerging science to support new program concepts.

Skills

AI/ML expertise

RF technologies

Security clearance eligibility

Advisory to government

Program management

Strong communication

Technical research

Education

Master's degree

Job description

Job Description

Everforth ECS is seeking a Subject Matter Expert II to work in our Arlington, Virginia office.

Please note: This position is contingent upon contract award.

Salary Range: $180,000 - $210,000

Position Overview

Everforth ECS is seeking a Subject Matter Expert II in AI and machine learning or radio frequency technologies to advise DARPA MXO program managers. You will apply deep technical experience to research that may combine advanced hardware, hardware-informed algorithms, unconventional computing, sensing, communications, and new approaches to mission effects.

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

• Provide authoritative analysis of AI and ML or RF research, including technical assumptions, system architecture, performance evidence, integration risk, and mission utility.
• Assess performer progress and test results, identify the most consequential uncertainties, and recommend technically sound risk-reduction paths.
• Support the full R&D lifecycle from new program formulation and proposal evaluation through execution, demonstration, transition, and closeout.
• Communicate complex findings to program managers, office leaders, performers, and potential transition partners.
• 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
• 15 or more years of relevant experience
• US. citizenship required for security-clearance eligibility
• Expert credentials or recognition as an authority in AI and machine learning, radio frequency technologies, or a closely related field.
• Mature judgment and the ability to advise senior Government personnel on complex scientific and engineering matters.
• Ability to independently address R&D engineering problems, resolve important questions, and plan and coordinate technical work.
• Advanced command of the techniques, theories, and practices required in the candidate's discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Skills

• Experience with basic and applied research and prior service as a DARPA program manager or senior SETA advisor.
• Experience managing R&D programs from inception through closeout.
• Ten or more years of experience with one or more DARPA programs.
• Three or more years working with DARPA program managers.

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!