Subject Matter Expert (SME)-SCO SETA, Top Secret Clearance

Blue Sky Innovators is seeking a highly skilled, experience, and mission-driven Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to join the team as SETA Support for the OUSD(R&E) Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO).   This role offers a unique opportunity to supporting innovative research and development initiatives to develop warfighter capabilities that shape the future of national security.

As a SETA, you will provide critical support to Program Managers (PMs) across a range of technical and operational domains.  A candidate must be able to facilitate technical discussions as well as provide expert-level guidance to senior Department of Defense (DoD) decision-makers in a fast-paced environment.  The ideal candidate will have a strong background in defense and military technologies and a proven track record of leading strategic initiatives that align technological investments with warfighter priorities.

Description

Key Responsibilities:

•  Provide day-to-day support to DARPA PMs in planning, executing, and managing advanced R&D programs


• Assist in the development and review of technical proposals, white papers, and program documentation


• Coordinate and facilitate program meetings, briefings, and technical interchange events


• Support front office operations, including correspondence, and stakeholder engagement


• Track program budgets, funding allocations, and contract deliverables


• Conduct market research and technology assessments to inform program strategy


• Liaise with performers, government stakeholders, and contracting officers


• Prepare reports, presentations, and decision-support materials for senior leadership


• Ensure compliance with DARPA policies, security protocols, and acquisition regulations

• Support the analysis, development, and prioritization of future warfighting capabilities.


• Lead technical discussions and collaborate with experts across the Department of Defense.


• Offer strategic insights and recommendations to align technology investments with operational needs.


• Work closely with high-level DoD decision-makers, delivering comprehensive assessments and support for strategic initiatives.


• Lead and contribute to meetings, briefings, and other engagements with senior military leaders, ensuring strategic alignment across multiple programs of record.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 15 years of relevant experience, with demonstrated expertise in defense and military technology


• Top Secret Security Clearance (SCI eligibility with Poly preferred)


• Bachelor’s degree


• Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-tempo environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree


• Proven track record of supporting high-level decision-making within the DoD or other defense agencies.


• Experience in technical leadership, strategy development, and future capabilities planning.


• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical information to senior military and civilian leadership.


• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, BAA lifecycle, and program execution

Blue Sky Innovators, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are a qualified job seeker with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access http://www.blueskyinnovators.com as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, please email us at [email protected] and provide your name and contact information. Please note: this is only for job seekers with disabilities requesting an accommodation.