Sr. Acquisition Strategy SME

Overview

Senior Acquisition Strategy SME (USSF / SSC)

LOCATION: El Segundo, CA
JOB STATUS: Full-time
CLEARANCE: Active TS clearance; SCI eligible with in-scope investigation (T5/SSBI)
CERTIFICATION: DAWIA/APDP Level III, PMP, or PgMP (preferred)
TRAVEL: As Needed
SALARY: $185,000 – $230,000

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Acquisition Strategy Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) in El Segundo, CA. This position provides high-level acquisition strategy, planning, and advisory support across space-based mission areas, working directly with senior leadership to shape program direction, acquisition approaches, and source selection activities.

This is a high-visibility, strategic role requiring deep experience across the DoD acquisition lifecycle, Headquarters-level coordination, and space system program execution.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, Business, or related field
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in DoD acquisition management and planning
• Experience supporting both operational units and Headquarters Staff organizations (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated expertise in developing acquisition strategies and supporting source selections
• Strong knowledge of DoD acquisition lifecycle (ACAT I–III) and milestone decision processes Experience with DoD contracting, budgeting, and financial management principles (PPBE)
• Understanding of USSF policy and doctrine, including service, combatant command, and interagency relationships
• Familiarity with Congressional Defense Committees and related processes
  Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level briefings
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• U.S. Citizenship required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Master’s degree in systems engineering, Software Engineering, or related technical field
• Experience supporting Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) or related space mission areas
• Prior experience supporting Pentagon, major command (MAJCOM), or Headquarters-level organizations
• Previous role as an evaluator or advisor on source selection boards (SSEB/SSAC)
  Familiarity with Confluence, JIRA, or similar collaboration tools
• DAWIA/APDP Level III certification in Program Management or equivalent
• Experience leading diverse teams and working independently in high-visibility, time-sensitive environments

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide strategic acquisition planning and advisory support across SSC mission areas
• Develop, assess, and refine acquisition strategies for space-based systems and programs
• Support and advise on source selection activities, including evaluation criteria and documentation
• Assess and evaluate program acquisition documentation (e.g., acquisition strategies, RFPs, CDRLs)
• Provide recommendations to leadership on program execution, risk, and acquisition approach
• Support PPBE activities, including budgeting, financial planning, and program alignment
• Interface with senior leadership, program offices, and external stakeholders, including interagency partners
• Coordinate across Headquarters, MAJCOM, and program-level organizations to ensure alignment of acquisition efforts
• Prepare and deliver executive-level briefings, reports, and decision support materials
• Provide insight into policy, doctrine, and legislative considerations impacting acquisition programs
• Lead or support cross-functional teams in high-visibility, time-sensitive environments
  Perform additional duties as required

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