Technical Expert/Subject Matter Expert place Washington, DC 068-24-5 bookmark_outline

Tecolote Research, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Technical Expert to support a critical Navy program as it approaches Milestone A approval. This role demands extensive experience in cost estimating and analysis, particularly within the DoD framework. You will lead efforts in developing comprehensive cost models, ensuring alignment with program objectives and regulations. If you have a passion for defense acquisition and a proven track record in cost estimation, this position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on high-visibility projects. Join a dynamic team where your expertise will shape the future of defense programs.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in cost estimating and analysis for DoD programs.
• Strong understanding of DoD acquisition processes and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost estimate development for a major Navy program.
• Conduct feasibility analyses and provide expert-level analytical support.
• Engage with stakeholders to present and document cost estimates.

Skills

DoD acquisition regulations

Cost estimating and analysis

WBS development

Risk/uncertainty analysis

Automated Cost Estimating Integrated Tool (ACEIT)

Microsoft Office Suite

Cost estimating certification (DAWIA Level III, ICEAA CCEA)

DoD Secret Clearance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in math, engineering, business, or sciences

Tools

ACEIT suite

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

We are seeking a Technical Expert / Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a high-visibility Navy program as it prepares for Milestone A approval. This position requires a minimum of 20 years of experience in cost estimating and analysis, with a focus on developing new cost estimates from the ground up. The successful candidate will have extensive expertise in DoD cost estimating and acquisition processes, along with the ability to lead efforts in creating comprehensive cost models for large-scale programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of a new cost estimate from inception for a major Navy program progressing towards Milestone A.
• Conduct cost and feasibility analyses for complex program alternatives, Program Office budgets, Contractor Proposals, and other high-impact cost-related products.
• Provide expert-level analytical support for program controls, financial reporting, and budget execution, ensuring the alignment of estimates with program objectives and DoD guidelines.
• Spearhead the development of the program Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and play a critical role in crafting the program’s initial Cost Analysis Requirements Description (CARD) and Acquisition Program Baseline (APB).
• Engage with senior leadership, stakeholders, and contractors to present, defend, and document cost estimate results, ensuring clarity and confidence in program projections.

Skills Required

• Deep understanding of DoD acquisition regulations, processes, and best practices, with a particular focus on the “Develop, Deliver, and Sustain” lifecycle and Milestone A preparation.
• Proven experience in leading life cycle cost estimate development, including risk/uncertainty analysis and model documentation for large DoD programs.
• Extensive knowledge of WBS development, particularly with MIL-STD-881.
• Direct experience supporting ACAT 1D acquisition programs is preferred.
• Knowledge & experience estimating costs for advanced missile systems (targeting, guidance, flight control, engine, warhead) is preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience using the Automated Cost Estimating Integrated Tool (ACEIT) suite to perform cost estimating and analysis tasks.
• 24 semester hours of quantitative course work (mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, chemistry, etc.) to include at least three hours of college level calculus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Certification in cost estimating or financial management, such as DAWIA Level III (or equivalent), ICEAA CCEA, CDFM, or related professional credential, is strongly preferred.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance required; TS preferred.

Education

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences.

Location

WNY Maritime Office
1220 12th Street SE, Suite 270
Washington, District of Columbia 20003-3729