Space Operations Analyst

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 Operations Research and C5ISR Analysis (ORCA) group has a near-term need for a Senior Space Operations Analyst to provide on-site support in San Diego, CA to the Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Space Security & Defense Program (SSDP), and Department of the Air Force Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communications, and Battle Management (DAF PEO C3BM). The candidate will leverage simulation systems to support multi-domain military operations and drive the analytical process. Operations Analysts apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles and analytical tools to identify trends, analyze complex data, and solve real-world challenges. They also execute technical leadership of modeling and simulation efforts, providing quality assurance to other analysts. Qualified candidates should be able to effectively communicate analytic results, understand current and future space system capabilities, and apply analytical and engineering methodologies to solve operational problems. #KS

• Assist Program Managers and Team Leads in the day-to-day execution of space systems analysis and operations research projects, developing advanced project management models and forecasting resource requirements.
• Experience in designing predictive models for evaluating complex systems or architectures, including spacecraft maneuvers and orbital dynamics, using commercial and proprietary software tools.
• Lead the preparation of deliverables (presentations, written reports, etc.) to communicate assumptions, methodology, analysis-based findings, and recommendations to sponsors and stakeholders.
• Balance tasks across multiple projects concurrently and regularly communicate progress or challenges to task leads.
• Communicate analytic results and technical information to internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve as on-site subject matter expert in spacecraft systems, satellite operations, and/or space mission engineering principles.

At SPA, we strive 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.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.

Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. California Pay Transparency Range: $138k – $178k.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in applied math, engineering, physical science, or operations research
• Academic or industry experience in the space domain
• 6+ years of space systems engineering or space operations experience
• Demonstrated success in aligning diverse stakeholders, forging strategic partnerships, and directing high-impact research efforts in support of mission success
• Top Secret/SCI eligibility and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in applied math, engineering, physical science, or operations research
• Experience with DoD, Intelligence Community (IC), and/or Commercial Satellite systems
• Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) software, Systems Modeling Language (SysML), and Systems Tool Kit (STK)
• Recent proficiency in Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration, and Modeling (AFSIM) in the conduct of military-related analysis
• Active participation and membership in a professional aerospace or operations research society such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or the Military Operations Research Society (MORS)
• Previous experience supporting space capabilities within NRO, SPACECOM, STRATCOM, INDOPACOM, United States Air Force and/or United States Space Force

This position requires obtaining, holding, and maintaining eligibility for a Top Secret/SCI clearance based on the contract requirements. Applicants must be able to obtain the appropriate clearance within a reasonable amount of time based on the needs of the client.  Additionally, due to the protected nature of the work process and product at SPA, all positions require the execution of the SPA Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).  Some employees may be required to sign additional documents or complete other pre-employment or ongoing testing.