Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

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 an Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer to provide hybrid support out of the Northern Virginia.

The Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Engineer will the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission and will be responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing tests of homeland defense technology systems to ensure operational effectiveness, reliability, and suitability throughout their lifecycle. This role focuses on evaluating systems designed to secure U.S. borders and facilitate the lawful flow of commerce, ensuring compliance with DHS policies and operational requirements in realistic environments.

Primary responsibilities will fall within the following areas:

• Test Planning and Strategy Development: Design and develop operational test plans for homeland defense technologies, such as border surveillance systems, non‑intrusive inspection equipment, and trade facilitation systems. Ensure adherence to DHS Acquisition Management Directive (MD 102-01) and CBP’s Operational Requirements Document (ORD) processes.
• Test and Evaluation Coordination: Develop and coordinate Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), test concepts, and detailed test plans aligned with DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation) and CBP mission needs. Collaborate with CBP’s Office of Acquisition and operational stakeholders to align testing with mission objectives.
• System Performance Evaluation: Collect and analyze test data to assess the performance, reliability, and suitability of systems like integrated fixed towers, remote video surveillance systems, and cargo scanning technologies in operational border environments.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain critical documentation, including test plans, reports, and recommendations for system improvements. Support preparation for Operational Test Reports (OTRs) and briefings for CBP leadership and DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to support acquisition decisions.
• Stakeholder
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work with CBP officers, engineers, program managers, and DHS components to ensure effective testing. Engage with external partners, such as other DHS components or interagency partners, to align testing with broader homeland security objectives.
• Test Event Support: Support test events, including integrated test planning meetings, Deficiency Review Boards, Safety Review Boards, and Operational Readiness Reviews. Participate in…