Applied Technology 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.

SPA's NATO Allied Command Transformation Group, within JOID, provides capability development, portfolio management, program management, quality management, cost estimation analysis, standardization, reporting, software solutions and information management, and capability management support. We also provide an improved capability requirements capture process, including the generation, documentation and tracing of user requirements, with appropriate technical scrutiny, over the entire lifecycle of the requirements from capability definition through capability realization and capability usage.

We have a near-term need for an Applied Technology Engineer to provide onsite support in Norfolk, VA.

NATO ACT has adopted Agile DevSecOps principles emphasizing rapid, iterative delivery cycles and user-driven development. Many capability development efforts are software-intensive, while others integrate hardware and software into larger systems and services. Modern continuous integration and delivery toolsets are applied to ensure transparency, traceability, and responsiveness, allowing solutions to be developed, fielded, and refined quickly while remaining aligned with operational requirements. The growing demand for digital solutions has led to an expanding backlog of projects requiring sustained support. Candidates will embed within ACT's cross-functional teams, working alongside staff in product-centric development efforts. These teams deliver Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) through rapid development cycles while simultaneously exploring emerging technologies that combine hardware and software integration. This dual-track approach ensures NATO can meet immediate operational needs while also experimenting withnovel solutions that strengthen long-term capabilities. To sustain and expand this capability, HQ SACT is seeking support across multiple labor categories, including Solution Architects, DevSecOps Engineers, Full-Stack Developers, UI/UX Designers, Security Professionals, Acquisition and Contracting Specialists, Product Managers, Systems Engineers, Network Engineers, and Service Desk Operators. Candidates will be integrated into ACT teams under the guidance of the Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR), working within an Agile DevSecOps framework to deliver user-centric, operationally relevant solutions at speed. The Applied Technology Engineer will have the following specific tasks: deliver hardware and integrated technology solutions to support small-scale innovation projects in domains such as robotics, autonomous systems, IoT, radio links, and sensing. Support operational use of these solutions in experimentation and contribute to rapid adoption of new technologies in military contexts. Design and prototype electronic and electromechanical components using 3D printing, PCB design, soldering, and related fabrication methods. Integrate electronics with software and networks, ensuring secure and resilient system behavior. Apply knowledge of AI on the edge, machine vision, and advanced sensors to practical solutions. Document solutions in clear technical documentation, user/admin guides, and step-by-step instructions in platforms such as Confluence. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software developers and operational users, to deliver integrated solutions. Maintain awareness of technology trends (robotics, IoT, AI, sensing, automation) and evaluate applicability to NATO missions. Employ Agile, Design Thinking, and iterative prototyping methods to explore and validate innovative concepts. Perform additional tasks as directed by the COTR related to innovation support. As directed by the COTR, travel on official business in support of ACT both within and outside NATO's boundaries for up to 30 days per year. Shall be responsible for completing a Contractor Travel Request Form and following the ACTFinancial Manual Chapter 24 - Contractor Travel.

Required:

• Citizenship of one of the NATO member countries.
• Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering, Information Technology, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of experience, including experience integrating and customizing electronics for robotics, IoT, sensing, or other austere applications.
• Professional experience in integrating electronics with networks and software.
• Proven track record in robotics, IoT, automation platforms (e.g., ROS, industrial IoT, home automation).
• Experience with AI on the edge, machine vision, and advanced sensor integration.
• Strong practical skills in prototyping and fabrication (3D printing, soldering, wiring, PCB design, schematic drafting).
• Demonstrated ability to design and implement secure, resilient, and scalable electronic systems incorporating security and redundancy.
• Ability to document solutions effectively in user/admin guides, manuals, or platforms such as Confluence.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional and interdisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with Agile and Design Thinking practices applied to prototyping and user-centric experimentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and collaborative software.
• Fluent in English (written and oral).
• Active NATO or National Secret (or higher) clearance.