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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