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Systems Planning & Analysis · 3 months ago

Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

Alexandria, Virginia

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

3+ years exp

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. They are seeking an Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission by planning, conducting, and analyzing tests of homeland defense technology systems to ensure their operational effectiveness and compliance with DHS policies.

AnalyticsInformation Technology

Growth Opportunities

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Design and develop operational test plans for homeland defense technologies, such as border surveillance systems, non-intrusive inspection equipment, and trade facilitation systems

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

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

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

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

Support test events, including integrated test planning meetings, Deficiency Review Boards, Safety Review Boards, and Operational Readiness Reviews

Participate in critical design reviews and other meetings to support OT&E execution for border security and trade systems

Support testing that adheres to DHS policies, including the DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) and the DHS Risk Management Framework

Address risks related to border security operations and trade facilitation

Qualification

Test designData analysisStatistical methodsDHS policies knowledgeModelingSimulation toolsHomeland defense technologyAnalytical skillsRisk managementCommunication skills

Required

U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability/CBP Background Investigation

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

3+ years of relevant experience in test design, data analysis, and statistical methods for evaluating complex systems

Strong analytical skills for evaluating system performance and excellent written and verbal communication skills to provide actionable recommendations

Able to work fully onsite based on client needs

Preferred

Active CBP Background Investigation or an Active Top Secret clearance

In-depth understanding of DHS policies, including MD 102-01 (Acquisition Management), DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation), and the DHS SELC framework

Hands-on experience with homeland defense technology systems, such as border surveillance, non-intrusive inspection technologies, or trade compliance systems

Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, digital engineering, or data management platforms to support testing

Familiarity with data analytics tools for processing large datasets from border security operations or trade compliance systems