Applied Mission Engineer

Accountabilities:: Technology Evaluation & Mission Analysis: Apply subject matter expertise to evaluate border security technologies, inform investment decisions, support testing and evaluation, and assess operational relevance. Conduct structured technology assessments and capability reviews to identify emerging solutions with potential mission impact. Assess a broad range of technologies, including: Surveillance Systems: Day/night electro-optical (EO) cameras, infrared (IR) and thermal imaging systems, wide-area motion imagery (WAMI), and ground surveillance radar. Sensor Networks: Seismic, acoustic, and vibration-based ground sensors, sensor towers, and integrated multi-sensor systems for tracking and perimeter awareness. Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (cUAS): Radio frequency (RF) detection and mitigation systems, radar tracking, EO/IR cueing sensors, and kinetic or non-kinetic interceptors. Mobile and Fixed Platforms: Surveillance-equipped vehicles, unmanned ground systems such as robotic scouts, autonomous observation towers, and drones. Biometric & Identity Solutions: Facial recognition systems, mobile biometric collection kits, and multimodal screening technologies. Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) Systems: Vehicle and cargo scanning technologies using X-ray, gamma-ray, or neutron-based inspection, as well as trace detection systems for narcotics or explosives. Environmental & Infrastructure Technologies: Terrain monitoring tools, smart barriers, and environmental sensors affecting system placement, coverage, and performance. Technical Review & Evaluation: Review and evaluate technical materials from industry and government sources, including Requests for Information (RFIs), proposals, white papers, technology demonstration plans, and contractor deliverables. Plan and execute technical demonstrations, field tests, and system evaluations. Collect and analyze test data, assess system performance, and interpret results to support technical recommendations. Identify technical strengths, limitations, risks, and capability gaps across evaluated solutions. Mission Requirements & Engineering Guidance: Translate operational and mission needs into technical requirements and actionable engineering guidance. Collaborate with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission stakeholders to ensure technology assessments align with operational priorities. Support engineering and program planning through the development and review of key program artifacts, including Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) tailoring plans, Systems Engineering Plans (SEP), Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP), and Integrated Master Schedules (IMS). Technical Documentation & Acquisition Support: Develop technical reports, white papers, and decision briefings to support investment planning and acquisition strategies. Assist in preparing supporting documentation, including Statements of Objectives (SOO), Performance Work Statements (PWS), Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Functional Requirements Documents (FRDs), and Concepts of Operations (CONOPS). Provide engineering input to program planning and acquisition activities throughout program execution. Stakeholder Coordination & Program Execution: Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders to track progress, resolve technical issues, and support informed decision-making. Work across technical and operational teams to maintain alignment between engineering activities and mission objectives. Requirements: Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in applied engineering, technology evaluation, systems development, or a related technical field. Technical Background: Familiarity with evaluating complex technologies and assessing their performance, capabilities, and operational suitability. Acquisition & Systems Engineering: Knowledge of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition processes, including SELC and test planning. Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related technical discipline preferred. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to evaluate technical information, interpret test results, and develop sound recommendations. Technical Communication: Excellent technical writing and communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, white papers, and decision briefings for varied audiences. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Experience working with technical and operational teams in mission-driven environments. Mission Orientation: Ability to understand operational priorities and translate them into practical technical requirements and engineering guidance. Citizenship & Background Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Public Trust clearance. Travel Availability: Ability to travel up to 20% as required. Benefits: Competitive Salary: Annual pay range of $110,000–$160,000, depending on government contract ranges, relevant knowledge, skills, experience, and other factors. Remote Work: Remote position with the opportunity to work from anywhere in the United States. Paid Time Off: New hires accrue 20 days of paid time off annually, plus 10 paid holidays. Healthcare: Access to zero-deductible health plan options, including an optional Blue Cross Blue Shield plan. Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a 6% employer match and immediate vesting, subject to plan terms. Employee Ownership: Company-funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), providing an additional qualified retirement account. Bonus Program: Eligibility for semi-annual bonus opportunities, typically in July and December. Flexible Schedules: Flexible work schedules to support work-life balance. Professional Development: Up to $10,000 in annual education and training reimbursement. Mentorship: Access to career mentorship and professional development programs. Additional Coverage: Employer-funded benefits, including life and disability insurance. Meaningful Work: Opportunity to contribute to important national security and defense programs alongside experienced technical professionals.