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Senior UAS ISR Communications Subject Matter Expert

SAIC • Full-time • Arlington, VA, US • 3m ago

Job ID: 2611171

Location: Arlington, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-04-09

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE

Description

The Air Force seeks a highly experienced UAS/ISR Communications and Data Transport Architectures Subject Matter Expert to advise AF/A2 and A3 staff and leadership. This expert will inform key decisions on UAS/ISR Command and Control (C2) and sensor data architectures, remote split operations, and ISR data dissemination across the Air Force and DoD. The role requires comprehensive knowledge of global UAS/ISR operations and the ability to clearly communicate technical recommendations to senior leaders.

Responsibilities:

Provide expert advice and analysis on UAS/ISR C2 and sensor data communications architectures, remote split operations, and end-to-end ISR data dissemination.
Develop briefings and papers for senior leadership (MAJCOM, HAF, Joint Staff, OSD) and other key stakeholders.
Collaborate with various offices and agencies to coordinate staff packages and task responses.
Provide expertise regarding modernization of cryptographic capabilities for UAS/ISR platforms.
Assess the potential impact of spectrum auctions and expanded commercial use of USAF UAS/ISR existing/planned frequency bands.
Serve as a key advisor to AF/A2 and A3 leadership on complex UAS/ISR communications challenges and emerging technologies.

Qualifications

Bachelor's and 14 years or more experience; Master's and 12 years or more experience
Extensive UAS/ISR Communications Expertise: Minimum 5 years of experience with UAS/ISR platforms (e.g., MQ-9, MQ-1, RQ-4, RC-135, or similar), sensors, and associated communication systems. Deep understanding of:
- Satellite communications (SATCOM)
- Line-of-sight (LOS) data links
- Terrestrial circuits
- Spectrum management for global UAS/ISR operations
- Cryptographic modernization
Data Architecture and Dissemination Proficiency: Proven expertise in UAS C2 and sensor data architectures, remote split operations, and ensuring seamless ISR data flow across the Air Force and DoD ISR enterprise, including the Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). Experience with communications supporting UAS/ISR sensors, payloads, Ground Control Stations (GCS), and Processing Exploitation and Dissemination (PED).
Staff Experience: Minimum 3 years of experience at the MAJCOM level or higher (e.g., HAF, Joint Staff, OSD), demonstrating the ability to effectively navigate organizational structures and coordinate efforts across multiple stakeholders.
Exceptional Communication and Presentation Skills: Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver compelling briefings and papers to senior leadership on complex technical topics.
Self-Starter with Strong Analytical Skills: Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and proactively identify and address emerging challenges.
Clearance: TS/SCI is mandatory
Work Location: Pentagon (on site SCIF)